The Enugu North Magistrate Court has remanded a suspect, Ekene Agala, in a correctional facility over allegations of burglary and theft involving ₦2.5 million, in a case that has generated widespread debate on social media.
Agala was arraigned on a 13-count charge bordering on burglary and stealing, after which the court ordered his remand without bail pending the continuation of legal proceedings.
Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu, who has been following the case, said he travelled from Asaba to Enugu on June 29 to ensure the suspect received fair treatment and due process, having earlier condemned the mob attack allegedly carried out against him.
According to Gwamnishu, his independent findings after arriving in Enugu revealed facts that differed from the narrative widely circulated on social media.
He stated that while many people sympathized with Agala following reports of the mob assault and claims that he had been falsely accused, investigators had received complaints from several individuals within his community.
Gwamnishu further disclosed that the prosecution presented allegations that Agala unlawfully entered the residence of Mrs. Nneka Emmanuel and allegedly stole ₦2.5 million, alongside statements from complainants, witnesses and other evidence before the court.
He cautioned against relying solely on social media narratives, stressing that criminal allegations should be determined through the judicial process rather than public opinion.
According to him, justice must be guided by facts, evidence and the rule of law.
The human rights activist also confirmed that he was present in court during the proceedings, where the magistrate ordered that the defendant be remanded in a correctional facility pending further hearing.
The case has continued to attract public attention, with many Nigerians calling for the judicial process to be allowed to run its full course.
The allegations against the defendant remain before the court, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
