The Federal High Court sitting in Benin City has ordered the interim attachment of a property belonging to Jessica Oghomwen Iguodala over her alleged failure to appear in court to take her plea in an ongoing criminal case.
The order was issued on Thursday, October 29, 2026, by Justice B. O. Quadri of Federal High Court No. 1, following an application by prosecuting counsel, P. O. Odion, Esq.
According to an affidavit filed by the investigating police officer, ASP Bulus Joseph, the defendant allegedly failed to appear before the court to take her plea in charge number FHC/B/5C/2024, prompting the issuance of a warrant for her arrest.
The affidavit further alleged that the defendant had been evading arrest despite efforts to secure her appearance, including an application for public summons to be published in two national newspapers, The Observant and Vanguard.
The prosecution also informed the court that the defendant had continued to have legal representation during proceedings, which it cited as an indication that she was aware of the case.
The property affected by the order is located at No. 127, Independent Street, off Ighomwenghian Street, off Upper Sakponba Road, Benin City.
The prosecution sought the interim attachment under Sections 80 and 81 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.
During the proceedings, counsel previously representing the defendant, E. Ehikioya, Esq., reportedly withdrew his appearance, while J. E. Imagbeghian, Esq., appeared as new counsel.
Imagbeghian sought to challenge the procedure adopted by the prosecution, arguing that the application should have been brought on notice rather than ex parte.
However, Douglas Ogbankwa, Esq., lead counsel for the nominal complainant, alongside S. U. Obazee, O. A. Enobabor, A. J. Onwunaje and O. T. Okeke, opposed the argument. He contended that granting the new counsel audience under the circumstances would be contrary to public policy, citing the defendant’s alleged failure to comply with court orders requiring her appearance.
In his ruling, Justice Quadri held that the prosecution’s application had merit and ordered the interim attachment of the property.
The judge stated that the order would remain in force for 14 days, pending the necessary action by the prosecution, failing which it would stand vacated.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter until December 8, 2026, for further proceedings.
Written by Enitan Mudashiru
