Alleged Cultist Arraigned for Attempted Murder in Rivers State

By Tina Amanda

A suspect identified as Savoir Robort, popularly known as “Timba,” has been arraigned before a Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt on a two-count charge of cultism and attempted murder.

According to the charges read in court, Robert and members of his cult group allegedly ambushed Chief Gani Topba, leader of the Conscience of Ogoni People, on March 12, 2023.

The attack reportedly occurred as Chief Topba was returning from Zaakpo community in Khana Local Government Area. He was shot multiple times and left unconscious.

Robort pleaded not guilty to the charges, and his counsel filed for bail, but this was opposed by the prosecution, led by Precious Ordu from the Rivers State Ministry of Justice. Ordu requested time to respond to the bail application, citing the need to review the documents which were only served in court.

Presiding Judge, Justice Augusta Chukwu, adjournave ed the case to February 5 and 18, 2025, for hearing on the bail application and possible trial.

In a related development, another suspect, Deele Akpobari, also known as “Bob Satan,” alongside another individual, is standing trial for alleged cultism and attempted murder of Chief Topba.

The Rivers State Government has taken over the prosecution of two of the three related cases. The third case remains at the stage of review by the Department of Public Prosecution following a remand proceeding filed by the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Mustapha, against Akpobari.