Court Hears Evidence in Alleged Murder of Rivers Pharmacist

By Uchendu Ejiowhor

The trial of Leesor Kpugisere, who is facing charges over the alleged murder of pharmacist Muanalo Sunday from Zaakpo community in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, continued with the testimony of a prosecution witness before the High Court.

An investigative officer with the Rivers State Police Command, Assistant Superintendent of Police Stephen Ntibmouwei, adopted his witness deposition before the court, detailing the allegations against the defendant.

Leesor Kpugisere is standing trial on a five-count charge bordering on alleged murder, kidnapping, cultism and unlawful possession of firearms. He pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecution alleges that the defendant conspired with four other suspects—Confidence Kirinee, popularly known as General Illa, Precious Mona, Loveday Legah and Soniabari Sagha—who have already been convicted and sentenced to death by hanging for offences including murder, kidnapping, cultism and illegal possession of firearms in connection with the killing of the pharmacist.

Following the adoption of the witness statement, defence counsel requested an adjournment to enable the cross-examination of the prosecution witness.

The trial judge, Justice Augusta Chukwu, adjourned the case until July 14, 2026, for the continuation of trial.

Leesor Kpugisere is also facing separate charges of alleged cultism and the attempted murder of the Leader of the Conscience of Ogoni People, Gani Topba, in connection with an incident said to have occurred in March 2023.