Celebrity Carpenter Moses Amiebenomo, Granted Bail, Says He’s Confident Justice Will Prevail

Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday granted bail to renowned craftsman and entrepreneur, Mr. Moses Amiebenomo, popularly known as “The Celebrity Carpenter,” who was recently arraigned by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) on allegations bordering on abandonment and marital issues.

Presiding over the matter, Justice Bello Kawu ruled that the decision to grant bail lies within the court’s discretion, emphasizing fairness and due process. He subsequently adjourned the case to February 3, 2026, for further hearing.

“I have listened carefully to the application from both counsels. Bail remains a discretionary power of the court, whether opposed or supported,” the judge stated. Notably, the prosecuting counsel did not oppose the bail application.

Speaking to journalists after the court session, Barr. Ibrahim Amiebenomo, lead counsel to the defendant, expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling.

“We are pleased with today’s outcome and appreciate the trial judge’s sense of justice and purpose. The court has again demonstrated that justice can neither be delayed nor denied,” he said.

He also provided clarity on the background of the case, explaining that the matter stems from a misunderstanding between Mr. Amiebenomo and his former spouse.

“The facts are clear. My client lawfully divorced his ex-wife through a competent court of justice. Unfortunately, she has since attempted to portray him negatively, alleging abandonment and neglect. NAPTIP, without conducting proper investigation, rushed to file charges. Ironically, the same children she claims were abandoned are those whom the court in Keffi legally placed under my client’s custody,” he explained.

Sources close to the family allege that the ex-wife may be attempting to use her connections to influence or intimidate the Celebrity Carpenter, leveraging the case to tarnish his reputation. However, Mr. Amiebenomo remains calm and resolute, describing the allegations as “baseless and vindictive.”

“I am not perturbed,” he said. “I have absolute faith in the Nigerian judiciary. Truth always stands the test of time, and I know justice will prevail.”

Also present in court was the defendant’s father, Barr. Dr. Idris Amiebenomo, who expressed optimism about the eventual outcome.

“Today’s decision is a victory for justice. I have no doubt that my son will be vindicated because this matter is dead on arrival. NAPTIP lacks the jurisdiction to prosecute this case,” he said.

The prosecuting counsel declined to comment, stating that she was not authorized by NAPTIP to speak on the matter.

Mr. Moses Amiebenomo, widely admired for redefining traditional craftsmanship, is the founder of Segesse College of Traditional Carpentry (SCTC) — Africa’s first academy blending indigenous carpentry with modern design. He currently resides in Abuja with his wife, Princess Aisha Mammam Amiebenomo, and their eight children.

As the next hearing approaches, supporters and admirers across the creative and business community continue to rally behind the Celebrity Carpenter, confident that the truth will ultimately prevail.