The trial of Uchenna Nicholas Obiagwu, a driver accused of murdering his employer, Bishop Clarence Chinedu Okonkwo, popularly known as Clarence James, has commenced at the Delta State High Court, Ibusa Judicial Division.
The proceedings are being presided over by Justice H. O. Akpotohwo, according to a statement issued by the Delta State Ministry of Justice on Thursday, November 12, 2026.
Bishop Okonkwo, a Pentecostal cleric and founder of End-Reconciliation Ministry in Asaba, was allegedly murdered at his residence in Ibusa, near Asaba, on May 12, 2026.
At the commencement of the trial, the prosecution called its first witness, Pastor Tippa Wealth, who told the court that he owned the agency through which Obiagwu was employed as the bishop’s driver.
Led by the Solicitor-General of Delta State, Omamuzo Erebe, SAN, the prosecution team also included Juliet Akpomiemie, Ifeanyi Uduaghan and Faith Beluchukwu, all from the state Ministry of Justice. The defendant was represented by Mr Ofiali of the Legal Aid Council.
While giving evidence, Wealth said he received a telephone call barely three weeks after Obiagwu started working, informing him that the driver had allegedly killed his employer.
The prosecution alleged that Obiagwu attacked Bishop Okonkwo and beat him to death with a pestle inside his residence before fleeing with the cleric’s Toyota Land Cruiser and mobile phones.
The defendant and his brother were subsequently arrested in Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, while allegedly attempting to sell the stolen vehicle for ₦10 million.
During police interrogation, Obiagwu reportedly claimed that armed kidnappers had forced him to participate in the attack. He allegedly said the men blindfolded him before gaining access to the bishop’s residence.
The late cleric, who also served as Deputy Chairman of the Ibusa Indigenous Ministers Association, was well known in the Christian community.
His alleged killing has attracted public attention, with members of the Ibusa Christian community calling for justice.
The case was adjourned until November 26, 2026, for continuation of the hearing, when the prosecution is expected to call additional witnesses.
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