Benjamin Kuti, founder of the community of Nigerians in the United Kingdom (also known as the Oluomo of Derby), confirmed to The PUNCH that the artist is slated for a plea hearing at the Snaresbrook Crown Court.

According to Kuti, who regularly tracks and supports legal cases involving Nigerians in the UK, the court session is scheduled to take place on September 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

While initial online rumors that surfaced around August 19 pointed toward rape allegations, details concerning the specific incident and the identity of the complainant remain unverified independently.

Kuti emphasized the importance of allowing the judicial process to unfold, noting that the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and confirmed plans to attend the upcoming hearing to offer community support.

The late actor, who maintained that he neither smoked nor drank alcohol, shared in the footage that his ordeal began when he experienced a sudden, intense chest pain while traveling to a film location.

Ogogo described enduring frightening symptoms, including recurring chest pain, vomiting blood, and severe ulcers, which made him fear for his life during the peak of the illness.

He explained, “I don’t smoke cigarettes or weed. Those who know me well know that if I take a bottle of beer, I will finish it down with two bottles of Schweppes. I’ll keep that bottle till daybreak. Once, I was going to a location and I felt a sharp chest pain radiating to my back. Within five minutes, I didn’t feel comfortable at all. I spent almost six years battling this illness. I had ulcers and would vomit blood for seven months. I prayed while sitting.”

In solemn developments, Ogogo’s remains were laid to rest on Monday following Islamic burial rites in his hometown, drawing a large crowd of grieving family members, fans, and colleagues.

Footage from the funeral procession captured emotional scenes as mourners transported the veteran actor’s body to the final resting place.

Among the attendees was his close friend and longtime colleague, Yinka Quadri, who was deeply overcome with emotion and wept openly during the final rites for the 66-year-old film icon.

A key element of these celebrations is exchanging gifts, which serve as expressions of love, appreciation, friendship, or congratulations rather than just monetary transactions.

Choosing the right present can sometimes be challenging, leading to popular options that range from versatile gifts to practical items suitable for various Nigerian celebrations.

Cash or monetary gifts: A practical option for weddings, birthdays, graduations, and naming ceremonies that allows recipients to decide how best to use the funds.

Gift vouchers: Vouchers from popular retailers, supermarkets, or restaurants give celebrants the freedom to choose what they want when the giver is unsure of personal tastes.

Quality food items: Curated food hampers or customized premium baskets filled with groceries, snacks, and beverages work well for many Nigerian households.

Perfumes and fragrances: Classic personal gifts that suit birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries, especially when matching the recipient’s preferred scent.

Wristwatches: Stylish and functional timepieces ranging from affordable everyday wear to premium engraved options for both men and women.

Books: Meaningful choices for students, professionals, and graduates, particularly works by African and Nigerian authors that foster a cultural connection.

Clothing and fashion accessories: Options include native fabrics, traditional outfits, ties, scarves, handbags, or belts if the recipient’s size and style are known.

Bags and wallets: Practical work bags, travel bags, backpacks, or durable wallets suitable for job promotions, birthdays, and other milestones.

Home appliances and household items: Essential small appliances like blenders, electric kettles, irons, and rechargeable fans that help couples and families set up new homes.

Personalised gifts: Custom items like mugs, photo frames, throw pillows, and notebooks featuring names, dates, or photos to add emotional value.

Flowers and indoor plants: Thoughtful tokens of affection and congratulations for personal celebrations or corporate appreciation.

Electronics and gadgets: Popular tech items such as wireless earbuds, smartwatches, power banks, and rechargeable lamps that offer extra value amidst power supply fluctuations.

Self-care and wellness packages: Skincare items, body products, and spa or massage experiences designed to help the recipient relax.

Experience-based gifts: Memorable outings such as restaurant dinners, weekend getaways, concert tickets, or hotel stays for close friends and family.

Religious and inspirational gifts: Faith-based devotionals, journals, and framed scriptures chosen according to the recipient’s preferences.

Ultimately, the success of a gift depends on thoughtfulness, usefulness, and suitability for the recipient’s lifestyle, budget, and relationship to the giver.