Man, 27, Arraigned In Court For Allegedly Assaulting Lady During Squabble In Lagos Bar

MICHAEL AKINOLA

A 27-year-old man, Chibueze Esomo, was arraigned before a magistrate court in the Ikeja Magisterial District over allegations arising from an incident at a bar in Ogba area of Lagos State. The matter was filed by the Commissioner of Police. 

According to the charge sheet, the incident was said to have occurred on the 6th of June, 2026 at about 4:00am at Dante Bar, Ogba. The prosecution alleged that a disagreement at the location involved the defendant and one Adepeju Bakare.

The first count before the court alleged that the defendant unlawfully assaulted Adepeju Bakare during the incident. It was stated that the alleged action included giving her several blows to her body and stabbing her on her left hand, which caused her harm.

The offence in the first count was said to be contrary to and punishable under Section 173 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. That section deals with assault occasioning harm under Lagos State law.

A second count was also filed against the defendant. The prosecution alleged that Mr. Esomo conducted himself in a manner likely to cause a breach of peace at the public place by beating Adepeju Bakare.

This second allegation was said to be contrary to and punishable under Section 168 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. That provision addresses conduct that may lead to public disturbance.

The Investigating Police Officer named in the document is ASP Daniel Ajileye. He is attached to Area “G” Command, according to the charge sheet.

Legal procedure requires that the court will proceed to take the defendant’s plea and make appropriate orders regarding bail and further hearing dates. Evidence is expected to be presented by the prosecution in due course.

However, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor, SP Josephine Ihkayere, asked the Court to give a date for hearing to enable the Police to prove the allegations.

The presiding Magistrate, Mr. L.A. Owolabi, granted him bail with two sureties, who must show evidence of means of livelihood and tax payment.

Section 173 of the Lagos State Criminal Law relates to offences where harm is alleged to have been caused to another person. Section 168 relates to conduct in public that may cause a breach of peace. Both carry penalties as prescribed by law upon conviction.

The matter was adjourned for mention while the defendant was remanded in the Correctional Center at Kirikiri town pending when he will perfect his bail conditions. It is important to note that these remain allegations at this stage. Under Nigerian law, every person charged with an offence is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.