Hearing has continued at the Plateau State High Court in Jos in the trial of individuals accused of involvement in the Anguwan Rukuba killings and other violent incidents across parts of the state, with one of the defendants, Adamu Alhassan, formally denying all allegations against him.
The case came up before Justice Jacob Longden of Court 12, where proceedings were interpreted into Hausa by the court clerk to ensure the defendant, who understands only the language, followed the court process.
The Plateau State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Philemon Daffi, informed the court that the charge dated April 17, 2026, was filed alongside witness statements and lists of exhibits. He then urged the court to read the charges aloud to the defendant so he could properly understand and respond.
During the reading of the charge, the court was told that Alhassan, together with others who are still at large, allegedly took part in a series of coordinated attacks on communities in Bachit, Riyom Local Government Area, and Vom in Jos South Local Government Area between 2025 and January 2026. The incidents reportedly led to multiple deaths.
Alhassan, however, pleaded not guilty to all six counts, which include criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, terrorism, unlawful possession of firearms, and illegal dealing in arms and ammunition.
The defence counsel, Mustapha Ibrahim, SAN, asked the court for seven days to enable him consult with his client and file the necessary responses. He also opposed the prosecution’s request that the defendant remain in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), arguing instead that detention in a correctional facility would better protect his constitutional rights and ensure access to legal representation.
On its part, the prosecution maintained that the seriousness of the case, ongoing investigations, and the fact that other suspects were still on the run made it necessary for the defendant to remain in DSS custody.
After listening to both sides, Justice Longden adjourned the matter to May 8, 2026, for a case management conference. The court also ordered that the defendant remain in DSS custody pending the start of trial proceedings.
More to follow…