The integrity of the palace of Idumuje-Ugboko in Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State, has suffered another challenge as the Crown Prince, Justin Nonso Nwoko, 64, was yesterday arraigned over alleged execution of documents by false pretences.

Also arraigned were Prince Ejimofor Nwoko, 68, Prince Richard Obiajulu Nwoko, 83 and Prince Edwin Nwoko, 72. They were arraigned on a three-count charge.

According to the prosecutor, the accused persons, sometime in August 2015, allegedly conspired to commit felony, adding that by fraudulent representation, they made Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko, HRM Obi Nwoko III, to sign a document which he ought not to sign.

The prosecution, represented by Mr. R. O. Ishiguzor, Legal Officer attached to Delta State Police Command, also alleged that the accused publicly conducted themselves in a manner likely to cause breach of peace in the community.

When the charges were read to them, they pleaded not guilty.

The lawyer, who represented them in court, Prince Mbanefo Nwoko, pleaded with the court to grant them bail in liberal terms as they were men of integrity, aged and their status as retired civil servants, who still draw their pensions.

However, the prosecutor objected on ground that one of the counts carries up to 14 years in prison, adding that if the trial judge must rule otherwise, they should be granted bail on condition that will ensure they face trial.

In her ruling, Chief Magistrate Roseline granted them bail in the sum of N20,000 each and a surety in like sum, who must swear to an affidavit of means, resident within the jurisdiction of the court and must deposit two passport photographs with the court.

The court adjourned the case to April 13 for definite hearing.

It will be recalled that the palace was in the news recently when the wife of the monarch was allegedly sent packing by Nonso Nwoko, the crown prince of the kingdom.