On Monday, three men, Bolu Wasiu, Nwokochi Chinonso and Akinstutu Olaleye, were arraigned before the Ikeja High Court for alleged murder and keeping an unlawful society.

The defendants, whose addresses were not disclosed, are facing a two-count charge bordering on murder and unlawful society membership.

They pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The Lagos State prosecutor, Uju Nwogazi, told the court that the defendants were arrested on December 23, 2021, in the Alapere, Ketu, area of Lagos.

Ms Nwogazi said the first and second defendants were charged with allegedly murdering one man simply identified as Jaju.

She said Messrs Wasiu and Chinonso killed Jaju by shooting and hitting him on the head with planks.

Ms Nwogazi also told the court that the three accused persons allegedly belonged to a society known as Eiye Confraternity.

Given the defendants ‘ plea, she then moved for a trial date, saying the offences contravened sections 213 and 42 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015.

The defence counsel, Kevin Okereke, did not object to the commencement of the trial.

Justice Oyindamola Ogala, thereafter, asked Mr Olaleye (the third defendant) how long he had been in custody, to which he said he had been at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre for one year and two months.

Ms Ogala then adjourned the matter until February 5, 2024, for trial and ordered the issuance of a witness summons. 

(NAN)