The Plateau State High Court sitting in Jos has resumed hearing in the trial of suspects linked to the Anguwan Rukuba killings and other violent attacks across parts of the state, with one of the defendants, Adamu Alhassan, pleading not guilty to a six-count charge.
At the resumed sitting before Justice Jacob Longden of Court 12, proceedings were interpreted into Hausa by the court clerk to ensure the defendant, who only understands the language, fully followed the proceedings.
The Plateau State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Philemon Daffi, told the court that the fresh charge—filed within the month—was supported with exhibits and witness statements.
“The charge is accompanied by a list of exhibits and witness statements, and we urge the court to ensure it is properly read and explained to the defendant for his understanding and response,” Daffi said.
In the charge read in court, Alhassan and others still at large were accused of participating in coordinated attacks on communities in Bachit, Riyom Local Government Area, and Vom in Jos South Local Government Area between last year and early this year.
The attacks reportedly resulted in multiple fatalities and widespread destruction.
Alhassan, when the charges were read to him, pleaded not guilty to all six counts bordering on criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, terrorism, illegal possession of firearms, and illegal dealing in arms and ammunition.
Defence counsel, Mustapha Ibrahim, SAN, urged the court to grant him seven days to consult with the defendant and prepare his legal response.
Ibrahim also opposed the prosecution’s request for the defendant to remain in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), arguing that such detention could impede fair access to legal representation.
“We respectfully submit that remand in correctional custody will better guarantee the defendant’s constitutional rights and access to his counsel,” Ibrahim told the court.
However, the prosecution countered the defence application, insisting that ongoing investigations and the fact that other suspects remain at large made DSS custody necessary.
The prosecution argued that releasing the defendant to a correctional facility at this stage could undermine security efforts and the progress of the investigation.
Ruling on the matter, Justice Jacob Longden adjourned proceedings to next month for a case management conference and ordered that the defendant remain in DSS custody pending the commencement of trial.
The judge also emphasized the need for proper case preparation ahead of full trial proceedings.
More updates are expected as the trial continues.
