Bayelsa Governor’s Aide Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison for Assault, With Option of Fine

 

A Bayelsa State High Court has convicted Mr. Prudent Oguruguru, the Senior Special Assistant on General Duties to Governor Douye Diri, on charges of assault.

Oguruguru was arrested on February 20, 2024, following an incident in which he allegedly assaulted Ubong Effiong Ubek at Agudama-Epie in Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa State. Reports indicate that Ubek lost consciousness after the assault.

He was charged before Justice I. A. Orukari on five counts, including conspiracy, attempted murder, assault occasioning harm, serious assault, and malicious damage. Oguruguru pleaded not guilty to all charges. In response, the prosecution called six witnesses and submitted seven exhibits to support the case.

In his judgment on Tuesday, Justice Orukari concluded that the prosecution had proven the assault charges against Oguruguru beyond reasonable doubt. However, the judge dismissed the charges of attempted murder, ruling that the prosecution had failed to provide sufficient evidence.

During sentencing, Oguruguru's defense counsel, Abadiofoni, pleaded for leniency, urging the court to consider his client’s status as a first-time offender. But the prosecution, represented by D.J. Olubowale, objected, arguing that it was the defendant’s responsibility, not his counsel’s, to make a personal plea for mercy.

Oguruguru himself later addressed the court, asking for clemency, citing his role as the sole provider for his young family and elderly mother.

In his final ruling, Justice Orukari sentenced Oguruguru to three years in prison for one of the charges, with the option of a N250,000 fine. He was also sentenced to another three years, to run concurrently, for a separate charge, with the same fine option. The judge took into account Oguruguru's remorse and status as a first-time offender in his sentencing.