Murder trial of ARISE journalist delayed over absent defendants
The trial of 11 suspects accused of killing ARISE News journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu and security guard Barnabas Danlami was delayed on Monday after the Nigerian Correctional Services failed to produce the defendants in court.
According to ARISE News, at the resumed hearing before the Federal Capital Territory High Court, prosecution counsel Adama Musa informed the court that, although the suspects’ lawyers were present, the defendants were absent.
The prison officials claimed they were unaware of the trial date. The suspects were initially arraigned on January 21, and the court had scheduled trial dates for February 9, 10, and 12.
In response to Monday’s delay, Justice Mohammed Idris adjourned the proceedings. He ordered that a formal hearing notice be issued to the prison officials to ensure the suspects are produced at the next sitting.
The defendants are facing a nine-count charge bordering on conspiracy, armed robbery and murder.
Those standing trial are Shamsu Hassan, Sani Sirajo, Hassan Isah, Abubakar Alkamu, Abdulsalam Saleh, Suleiman Badamasi, Zaharadeen Mohammed, Musa Umar, also known as “Small,” Mashkur Jamil, Suleiman Sani and Abubakar Usman.
Ms Maduagwu, a presenter and reporter with ARISE News, died during an armed robbery at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Heading 5
Commonwealth Games: Nigeria wins silver in men’s 4x100m, Usoro claims long jump silver
Team Nigeria concluded day nine of the 2026 Commonwealth Games with one gold, two silver medals and one bronze medal.
States
Soludo’s wife advocates healthy lifestyles to reduce lung cancer
The governor’s wife called on Nigerians to prioritise early detection of lung cancer and adopt healthy lifestyles.
Heading 1
2027: INEC publishes Tinubu, Atiku, Obi’s credentials
The documents, displayed in Form EC9 at INEC offices nationwide, contained the candidates’ educational qualifications, work history, and affidavits, among others.
NationWide
Afrobeats can drive campaigns against drug abuse, human trafficking, says Marwa
Mr Marwa said Afrobeats, as a globally recognised music genre embraced by young people, possesses enormous potential to influence positive behaviour.
Africa
U.S. reaffirms recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara
Mr Trump said Washington remained firm in its position on the disputed territory.
Africa
WHO reports largest Ebola outbreak in DR Congo
The WHO said the outbreak had spread to five provinces, affecting 49 health zones, with sustained transmission, rising infections and increasing deaths reported nationwide.
