There was drama at the Magistrate Court in Asaba, Delta State, on Monday as self-acclaimed activist, Victor Ojei, popularly known as “Wong Box”, was arraigned on a three-count charge and ordered to be remanded in prison custody pending the perfection of his bail conditions.
Ojei, known for his fiery activism on social and political issues in Delta State, is facing charges of threat to life, assault occasioning harm, and threatening violence—offences said to contravene Sections 355, 86, and 249 of the Criminal Code.
The charges stem from a recent incident captured in a video shared by the Delta State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on his Facebook page. In the footage, Ojei was seen brandishing a cutlass and allegedly threatening officials of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), who had visited his residence to disconnect power supply over unpaid electricity bills.
During court proceedings, the prosecution argued that the activist’s conduct endangered individuals and threatened public peace. The presiding magistrate, after hearing submissions, granted bail but ordered that Ojei be remanded until the bail conditions are satisfied.
Confirming the development, SP Bright Edafe said in a telephone interview that the police would ensure justice is served.
“The matter is before the court, and he has been remanded pending when he meets his bail conditions. The position of the law is clear: nobody is above the law,” Edafe stated.
The arraignment has generated mixed reactions across Delta communities. While some residents insist that Ojei’s confrontational style had long courted controversy, others suggest that the charges may carry political undertones, given his frequent criticism of local authorities.
Meanwhile, the Young Nigerian Rights Organization (YNGR), with which Ojei is affiliated, issued a statement on his official Facebook page on Monday evening, thanking supporters for standing by him during the arraignment.
The statement, signed by YNGR Media Handler Valentine Ozegbe, read in part:
“On behalf of the Young Nigerian Rights Organization (YNGR), we extend our sincere gratitude to all who came out today to show their support for Mr. Wong Box. While bail has not yet been perfected, we wish to reassure you that the legal team, alongside other stakeholders, is diligently working on the matter.”
The organization further cautioned its members and supporters against making derogatory or inflammatory comments on the case, warning that such remarks could misrepresent the group’s official position.
“We urge everyone to remain calm, keep emotions in check, and continue to support us through lawful and peaceful means as we work tirelessly towards a positive resolution,” the statement added.
Court watchers note that the case has been adjourned, and the coming days will determine whether Ojei secures his freedom on bail or continues to face detention while trial proceeds.