By Fawaz Adebisi
Pastor Uche Aigbe of the Abuja chapter of the House on the Rock has been charged with unlawfully possessing an AK-47 rifle.
The Chief Magistrate Court in the Federal Capital Territory delivered this ruling, on Thursday, dismissing the no-case submission made by Pastor Aigbe.
The court found sufficient evidence linking him to the prohibited firearm found in his possession.
Alongside him, Promise Ukachukwu and Olakunle Ogunleye, who pleaded not guilty, faced charges of criminal conspiracy, illegal possession of prohibited firearms, inciting disturbance, and criminal intimidation.
The prosecution alleged that they obtained the firearm from Inspector Musa Audu, who was previously stationed at the church premises.
The charges are therefore based on Sections III of the Firearms Act CAP F28, LFN 2004, as well as Sections 97, 114, and 397 of the Penal Code.
It was gathered that the case originated from a reported incident, on February 12, when Uche Aigbe allegedly appeared on the pulpit during a church service carrying an AK-47 rifle, leading to legal action.
As the legal proceedings unfold, this case underscores the significance of adhering to firearm regulations and the implications of such actions, even in places of worship.
