The trial of eleven suspects linked to the killing of ARISE News journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu and security guard Barnabas Danlami was stalled Monday after Correctional Services failed to produce the defendants in court.
At the resumed hearing at the FCT High Court, 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.
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 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 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.
