A Bayelsa State High Court has convicted Mr. Prudent Oguruguru, Senior Special Assistant on General Duties to Governor Duoye Diri, of charges related to the assault of a man, Ubong Effiong Ubek.
The assault occurred on February 20, 2024, in Agudama-Epie, Yenagoa Local Government Area, where the victim was allegedly left unconscious after the altercation.
Oguruguru was arraigned on five counts, including conspiracy, attempted murder, assault occasioning harm, serious assault, and malicious damage.
Despite pleading not guilty, the prosecution presented evidence from six witnesses and submitted seven exhibits.
On Tuesday, Justice I. A. Orukari delivered his judgment, convicting Oguruguru on the assault charge.
However, the court dismissed the three counts of attempted murder, as the prosecution failed to prove them beyond reasonable doubt.
In sentencing, Justice Orukari noted Oguruguru’s remorse and first-time offender status.
Oguruguru was sentenced to three years imprisonment on the assault charge, with an option to pay a N250,000 fine.
This sentence will run concurrently with another three-year term for one of the other charges.
Oguruguru’s defense counsel, Abadiofoni, urged the court to show mercy, citing his client’s status as a first-time offender and sole provider for his family.
However, the prosecution opposed this plea, arguing that the defendant himself should address the court, not his counsel.
Oguruguru subsequently asked the court for leniency, highlighting his role as the primary provider for his young family and elderly mother.
The court’s decision marks a significant outcome in the case and demonstrates the judiciary’s commitment to holding public officials accountable for criminal actions.