Poco Lee heading to trial over UK sexual assault allegation

By Anuoluwa Amao

A UK court has confirmed that Nigerian dancer and socialite Iweh Pascal Odinaka, widely known as Poco Lee, will appear before it over an alleged sexual assault case, ending days of speculation about his legal troubles abroad.

The Snaresbrook Crown Court in London verified the development in correspondence sent Tuesday, confirming the case is listed for plea and trial preparation on September 15, 2026. The court’s Admin Team Lead, James Baker, said the exact time and courtroom would not be released until closer to the hearing date, though proceedings remain open to the public.

The confirmation follows earlier reports from August 19 that Poco Lee had been detained in the UK, though details about the complainant and circumstances of the alleged incident remained scarce at the time.

Days before the court’s statement, Benjamin Kuti, founder of the Community of Nigerians in the United Kingdom, disclosed that Poco Lee was on remand and would appear for a plea hearing at 10 a.m. on the same date.

Kuti, who regularly supports Nigerians facing legal issues in the UK, said he plans to attend the hearing, while stressing that Poco Lee remains innocent until proven guilty.

The dancer, known for his large following built through dance performances and entertainment appearances, has not been convicted of any offence, and the allegation remains unproven ahead of next month’s proceedings.