Citizenship News
The trial of eleven persons, accused of killing ARISE News journalist, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, was Monday, stalled at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, jabi.
The prosecution of the defendants got stalled due to the failure of the authorities of Kuje prison to bring in Abuja to convey them to the court.
At the resumed trial on Monday, prosecution counsel, Adama Musa informed the court of the defendants’ absence, though their lawyers were present.
Musa expressed frustration, noting that prison officials claimed they were unaware of the January 9 trial date, despite four witnesses being ready to testify in the case
The defendants were arraigned on January 21, with trial dates fixed for February 9, 10, and 12.
To salvage proceedings, Justice Mohammed Idris adjourned to Tuesday, January 10, urging witnesses to remain available in the interest of justice.
The judge further ordered that hearing notice be issued to the Kuje Correctional Services to ensure they produce the defendants in court.
The case stems from a violent robbery on September 29, 2025, at Unique Apartments in Katampe Extension, Abuja, where Maduagwu and Danlami, a security guard lost their lives.
The eleven accused face nine counts, including conspiracy, armed robbery, and murder.
They are Shamsu Hassan, Sani Sirajo, Hassan Isah, Abubakar Alkamu, Abdulsalam Saleh, Suleiman Badamasi, Zaharadeen Mohammed, Musa Umar (alias “Small”), Mashkur Jamil, Suleiman Sani, and Abubakar Usman.
Counsel for both the prosecution and the defendants declined to speak with the media after Monday’s proceedings.
Therefore, the matter is adjourned, Tuesday, for commencement of trial.
