The Federal High Court in Abuja, has ordered the Attorney-General of the Federation to take over the prosecution of former Governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim.
The Nigerian police had initially filed criminal charges against Mr. Ohakim over allegation of threat to the life of an Abuja based woman, Chinyere Amuchienwa.
While arraignment of Mr Ohakim was pending , the police latter filed a notice of discountenance of the matter in March, same day the AGF informed the court that it has taken over prosecution of the case.
According to the charge ikedi Ohakim and Chinedu Okpareke were alleged to have threatened to release a nude photograph of Chinyere Amuchienwa, if she fails to drop charges of attempted kidnap against them.
In a ruling on Justice Taiwo Taiwo held that there was no doubt that the AGF has unfettered power to prosecute.
The court said where issues have been joined in a criminal matter, notice of discountenance is brought by way of motion on notice.
Consequently, Justice Taiwo states that the Court cannot give effect to the notice of discountenance filed by the police.
The trial judge insisted that the police move to discontinue the matter lacked merit.
In view of the ruling, the court adjourned to 21st October for the arraignment of the former Governor as well as commencement of trial.
