Abuja High Court Delays Trial Of Suspects In Killing Of ARISE News Reporter Somtochukwu Maduagwu Again

The Federal High Court in Abuja has again adjourned the trial of eleven suspects accused of killing ARISE News correspondent Somtochukwu Maduagwu and security guard Barnabas Danlami

Thursday’s proceedings were postponed after the lead prosecutor, Adama Musa, was absent, reportedly attending another criminal case at a sister court in Apo.

This marks the second delay within a week. Earlier on Monday, the trial was adjourned when officials of the Kuje prison authority failed to produce the defendants, claiming they were unaware of the scheduled court date.

In response, Justice Mohammed Idris has now fixed April 21, 22, and 23 for the continuation of the trial.

He expressed hope that the prosecution would conclude its case during this period, with a judgment delivered before year-end.

All eleven defendants, including Shamsu Hassan, had pleaded not guilty to nine counts of conspiracy, robbery, and murder.

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The charges relate to a violent robbery that occurred on September 29, 2025, at Unique Apartments in Katampe Extension, Abuja, during which Maduagwu and Danlami were killed.

The repeated delays have heightened concerns over the pace of justice in the high-profile case, as family members, colleagues, and the public continue to await accountability for the tragic killings.