Poco Lee Set for London Court Appearance Over Alleged Assault

Nigerian dancer and socialite, Iweh Odinaka, popularly known as Poco Lee, is reportedly in custody in the United Kingdom and is slated to face a London court next month regarding an alleged assault charge. This information was confirmed by Benjamin Kuti, widely recognized as the Oluomo of Derby and founder of the Nigerian community in the UK.

Kuti, who spoke with our correspondent on Monday, disclosed that Poco Lee is currently being held in a UK correctional facility. His court date is scheduled for September 15, 2026, at 10 am, at the Snaresbrook Crown Court. Kuti stated his involvement stems from his regular attendance at legal proceedings to offer support to Nigerians navigating the UK justice system.

"I can confirm that the reports are true. Poco Lee is currently on remand in a UK prison. His next court date is scheduled for the second week of September, when he is expected to have a plea hearing," Kuti affirmed. He further clarified that a plea hearing typically involves the accused entering a 'guilty' or 'not guilty' plea.

Kuti also expressed his intention to be present at the upcoming hearing as part of his commitment to assisting members of the Nigerian community abroad. He emphasized, "I will also be attending the court proceedings as part of my support for the Nigerian community in the UK, to ensure that our fellow Nigerian receives the appropriate support during this difficult period of his life."

He urged patience with the legal process, stating, "It is important that we allow the legal process to take its course. Everyone is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. His hearing would be at Snaresbrook Crown Court on September 15, 2026, at exactly 10 am."

Online reports concerning Poco Lee’s alleged detention in the UK first emerged on August 19. Earlier reports, however, did not reveal the identity of the alleged victim, the specific details of the alleged offence, or whether formal charges had been officially filed. It was also noted by several sources that neither the UK police nor any court had independently verified the arrest initially. As of the time this report was filed, an email sent to the court to confirm the trial details had not yet received a response.