Nigerian dancer Poco Lee has apparently been released from custody in the United Kingdom — but the criminal case against him has not gone away.
Social media activist Verydarkman (VDM) posted what he described as “proof of life” on Instagram on 12 September 2026, sharing footage of Poco Lee in London alongside Afrobeats star Burna Boy. The caption read: “Proof of life, Poco Lee’s first video since he came out. Big up @burnaboygram. Welcome back @poco_lee.” Online, many interpreted this as confirmation that the matter was resolved. It is not.
So what is actually happening with Poco Lee’s case?
Poco Lee, whose legal name is Iweh Odinaka, faces five serious charges before Snaresbrook Crown Court in London. Those charges include attempted rape, two counts of rape, and two counts of assault by penetration. A spokesperson for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed to reporters on Saturday that the case remains fully active.
“This case is still live, and Odinaka is still set to appear for a PTPH at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 15 September 2026,” the CPS stated.
A Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing (PTPH) is a formal pre-trial proceeding at which the defendant enters or confirms a plea and both sides prepare for any subsequent trial. It is not a formality — it is a significant procedural step in the English criminal justice process.
The CPS did not clarify whether Odinaka is on bail or was released on remand. Snaresbrook Crown Court had also not confirmed his custody status at the time of filing. VDM’s video strongly implies he is free, but no official confirmation has been issued.
Where did the allegations come from?
The charges stem from Odinaka’s visit to the United Kingdom in August for the Davido and Friends concert, held at Crystal Palace Bowl in London on 14 August. He was arrested in connection with alleged offences said to have occurred during that visit.
Snaresbrook Crown Court has confirmed that a reporting restriction is in place under Section 1 of the Sexual Offences Amendment Act 1992, protecting the identity of the complainant. That restriction remains in force.
What about the rumours circulating online?
Social media has been awash with claims that the complainant withdrew from the case or that the matter was settled out of court. Neither claim has been independently verified. The CPS statement directly contradicts any suggestion that proceedings have ended.
The viral enthusiasm following VDM’s post is understandable — nobody wants to see a compatriot in difficulty abroad. But celebrating a legal resolution that has not happened does Odinaka no favours and misleads the public. The court date stands. The charges stand. Until a judge rules otherwise, this case is far from over.