The Plateau State High Court sitting in Jos has resumed proceedings in the trial of suspects linked to the Anguwan Rukuba killings and related attacks, with one of the defendants, Adamu Alhassan, pleading not guilty to a six-count charge.
At the resumed hearing before Justice Jacob Longden of Court 12, proceedings were translated into Hausa for the defendant.
The Philemon Daffi, Plateau State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, told the court that “the charge, dated April 17, 2026, was accompanied by a list of exhibits and witness statements,” urging that it be read to the defendant for clarity and response.
The court heard that the defendant, alongside others still at large, allegedly took part in attacks on communities in Bachit, Riyom LGA, and Vom, Jos South LGA, between 2025 and January 2026, leading to multiple deaths.
Alhassan, however, 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, requested seven days to consult with his client and prepare responses, opposing the prosecution’s request for continued detention by the Department of State Services.
He argued that remand in a correctional facility would better protect the defendant’s rights and ensure access to legal counsel.
The prosecution maintained that ongoing investigations and the presence of other suspects still at large justified DSS custody.
Ruling on the matter, Justice Longden adjourned the case to May 8, 2026, for a case management conference and ordered that the defendant remain in DSS custody pending the commencement of trial.