An Anambra State High Court in Awka has granted bail to a Nnewi-based native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, popularly known as Muomiri Afuluanya, who is facing charges linked to an alleged breach of the state’s Homeland Security Law.

The ruling was delivered on Friday by Justice Jude Obiora, who approved bail in the sum of ₦50 million with one surety required to provide the same amount.

Apart from the financial condition, the court directed the defendant to submit the title documents of his residence. 

The judge stated that the property could be forfeited if Ezenagu fails to appear for trial or violates the bail terms. 

The court also barred him from granting media interviews while the case remains before the court.

Speaking after the proceedings, one of the defence lawyers, Kingsley Awuka, welcomed the decision, saying the conditions attached to the bail were within the defendant’s capacity to fulfil. 

He expressed confidence that the legal process would continue fairly and that the matter would be resolved through the court.

The Anambra State Government is prosecuting the case through the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke. 

The charges against Ezenagu include alleged violations of provisions contained in the Anambra Homeland Security Law.

The native doctor was arrested on March 26 by operatives of Agunechemba, the security outfit established by the Anambra State Government.

Authorities accused him of engaging in activities considered contrary to the state’s security law.

Following his arrest, security personnel reportedly searched his residence in Nnewi as part of investigations into the allegations against him.

When he was first brought before the court on June 3, Ezenagu arrived from a hospital where he had been receiving treatment. 

Through his lawyer, he requested bail on health grounds and also sought permission to remain under medical care pending the next hearing.

However, the prosecution opposed the request and urged the court to keep him in custody until the bail application was determined. 

The court subsequently ordered his remand at the Amawbia Correctional Centre while proceedings continued.

His application was eventually considered, leading to Friday’s ruling that granted him temporary freedom under strict conditions.

The case drew public attention after state officials alleged that Ezenagu had been attracting young people with promises of obtaining wealth through ritual-related practices. 

According to the government, some of the activities were said to involve a stream located behind his residence.

The Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, had earlier claimed that the suspect’s actions were contrary to the provisions of the Homeland Security Law. 

He also stated that authorities had previously warned him to stop the alleged practices but that he failed to comply.

With bail now granted, Ezenagu is expected to meet the conditions set by the court as his trial continues.