Poco Lee will not stand trial until March 2027. The Nigerian dancer, whose real name is Iweh Pascal Odinaka, saw his plea hearing fixed for February 8, 2027, with the trial scheduled to begin a month later on March 8. He was granted bail in September after spending weeks in custody in the United Kingdom over five sexual offence charges.
His management broke its silence on Wednesday, September 16, with a public statement thanking singer Zlatan Ibile and others for their support during the legal ordeal. The statement did not disclose the details of Zlatan's involvement, only that he had been helpful behind the scenes.
"Hello Everyone, we would like to publicly acknowledge that Zlatan, along with others, has been extremely supportive and helpful through this matter," the statement read. "Their involvement, support, and effort have been vital to moving things forward. We deeply value their ongoing support and dedication, and we kindly request that everyone refrain from spreading negative narratives."
The management's appeal to the public follows weeks of speculation and unconfirmed claims that circulated online after Poco Lee's release. Reports emerged that the complainant had withdrawn the case, but the UK proceedings remain active. The management has repeatedly asked the public to allow the legal process to run its course.
Poco Lee's legal trouble began in August when reports surfaced that he had been detained over sexual offence allegations. He was later charged with five offences: two counts of rape, one count of attempted rape, and two counts of assault by penetration. He spent weeks in custody before bail was granted in September.
In an earlier video discussing his experience in the UK, Poco Lee acknowledged Burna Boy and Rahman Jago for standing by him during the difficult period. The management's latest statement adds Zlatan to that list of supporters, though it stopped short of explaining what the singer actually did.
Zlatan has not publicly commented on the matter. Burna Boy and Rahman Jago have also remained silent in public forums, leaving the details of their support to the management's word.
The case has drawn attention across the Nigerian entertainment industry, where Poco Lee is known for his work as a dancer and entertainer. He has collaborated with several prominent artists over the years, though his management has not addressed how the legal proceedings might affect his career.
The February 2027 plea hearing and March 2027 trial dates mean the case will stretch on for more than a year. Poco Lee remains on bail in the UK while the legal process moves forward.
The management's statement ended with a direct request to the public: refrain from spreading negative narratives. It did not offer new information about the charges, the complainant, or the evidence in the case. It only asked for patience and acknowledged the people who have helped behind the scenes.
According to Pulse.ng.
