Egbelu Obube Community Calls For Albert Ahanonu’s Arrest, Prosecution

The Egbelu Obube Community in Owerri North LGA of Imo State has called for the arrest and prosecution of Mr. Albert Ahanonu, also known as Arufuoaku, who remains a fugitive despite a bench warrant issued by an Owerri High Court more than five months ago. 

The warrant was issued due to alleged criminal conduct, yet Mr. Ahanonu continues to evade capture.

It has been reported that, from his undisclosed location, he continues to direct actions that threaten the peace and unity of the community. Several community members, speaking anonymously for security reasons, have expressed concerns that rather than complying with the court’s directive to prove his innocence or guilt, Mr. Ahanonu has opted to engage legal representation to vacate the arrest and prosecution order.

It is important to note that Mr. Ahanonu has been accused of sponsoring a group of individuals to target perceived adversaries, thereby destabilizing the community’s peace. His legal troubles began when he was charged with allegedly threatening the life of Honorable Jude Ugwuanya, a former President General of the Egbelu Obube Community.

After reportedly jumping bail, the court issued a bench warrant on June 10, 2025, directing law enforcement agencies to apprehend Mr. Ahanonu and present him to the court by July 1, 2025. 

However, he remains at large, and his arraignment has yet to occur.

The warrant, filed under suit number OW/569/2024 (Commissioner of Police vs. Albert Ahanonu), includes a three-count charge. 

Mr. Ahanonu is accused of possessing a prohibited firearm, an offense under section 428(d) of the Criminal Code Cap 38 Laws of the Federation 2004, as applicable in Imo State.

Additionally, he is alleged to have engaged in conduct likely to breach the peace by brandishing weapons and threatening Honorable Jude Ugwuanya, punishable under section 249(d) of the same code.

 Furthermore, he allegedly committed unlawful assault by striking Honorable Ugwuanya with a walking stick, an offense under section 351 of the Criminal Code.

Mr. Ahanonu, a businessman with limited political engagement, was a chairmanship candidate in the last council election in Owerri North LGA. 

Over time, he has been implicated in ongoing legal disputes with community members, facing allegations of threats to life, attempted murder, kidnapping, recruitment of youths into cult groups, illegal possession of firearms, and indiscriminate use of guns.