The trial of eleven suspects accused of killing ARISE News correspondent, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, and a security guard, Barnabas Danlami, stalled again on Thursday at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court sitting in Jabi, Abuja.
Proceedings were adjourned after the lead prosecutor, Adama Musa, failed to appear in court, having been engaged in another criminal matter at a sister court in Apo.
Justice Mohammed Idris, who presides over the case, expressed displeasure over the repeated delays and urged all parties to ensure the matter proceeds without further setbacks.
The latest adjournment marks the second delay within three days. On Monday, the trial could not proceed after officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service failed to produce the defendants in court, citing lack of awareness of the trial date.
In his ruling, Justice Idris fixed April 21, 22 and 23, 2026, for the continuation of the trial. He stressed the need for speedy prosecution, expressing optimism that the prosecution would close its case within the scheduled dates and that judgment could be delivered before the end of the year.
All eleven defendants, including Shamsu Hassan and 10 others, have pleaded not guilty to a nine-count charge bordering on conspiracy, robbery and murder.
The charges arise from a violent robbery that occurred on September 29, 2025, at Unique Apartments in Katampe Extension, Abuja, during which Maduagwu and Danlami were reportedly killed.
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