An Anambra Senior Magistrate Court sitting in Nanka, Orumba North Local Government Area has granted bail to a couple, Mr and Mrs Emmanuel Anichukwu who allegedly poured hot water on their house-help for reportedly drinking their baby’s milk.
The house-help, one Chimamaka Nwafor, was rescued by Human Rights Legal Aid Intiative, Ekwulubia branch in Aguata Local Government Area of the state after the suspects reportedly refused taking her to hospital for treatment.
The suspects who were charged with grievous body harm, however pleaded not guilty to the charge after the Defence Counsel, Mr Vincent Okafor applied for their bail but was opposed by the Prosecutor, ASP Clem Nwanchor who claimed the suspects would likely jump bail if granted.
He also reasoned that granting them bail would affect the investigation of the case.
In her ruling, Presiding Senior Magistrate, Mrs. I.C Okoye granted the bail application, saying the case was not only a bailable offence, but that the Prosecutor was unable to present reasonable evidence to prove the suspects would jump bail if granted.
She further explained that the Prosecutor did show any evidence that their bail would affect the prosecution of the case.
“Since the offence is bailable and no prove that the couple will jump nor had past criminal records, I will excercise my discretion.
She said, “I hereby grant the couple bail at the sum of N600,000, N300,000 each, with one surety who must be a resident in the area, with evidence of three years verified tax clearance from Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue.
“The surety must also deposit his or her international passport with the court.”
The case was adjourned to November 25, 2020 for hearing.
Reacting to the bail, Coordinator of Human Rights body, Comrade Emmanuel Akanaeme called on those with house helps under them to be mindful of the way they treat them.
He said, “I have no issues with the bail. The court might have considered many things before granting the bail application, especially considering that the woman is nursing about two months baby.”
