Three individuals, Bolu Wasiu, Nwokochi Chinonso, and Akinstutu Olaleye, were brought before the Ikeja High Court on Monday, facing charges of murder and alleged membership in an unlawful society.
The accused, whose residential addresses were not disclosed, have been charged with a two-count bothering on murder and membership in an illegal organisation. Upon arraignment, all three defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The Lagos State Prosecutor, Mrs. Uju Nwogazi, informed the court that the defendants were apprehended on December 23, 2021, within the Alapere, Ketu area of Lagos.
Nwogazi said that Wasiu and Chinonso, the first and second defendants, are accused of the murder of an individual identified only as Jaju.
She alleged that the two defendants caused the death of Jaju by shooting and striking him on the head with planks.
Furthermore, Nwogazi contended that the trio were purportedly affiliated with a group known as the Eiye Confraternity.
Citing contraventions against Sections 213 and 42 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015, the prosecutor requested a trial date, considering the defendants’ plea.
The Defence Counsel, Mr. Kevin Okereke, did not oppose the initiation of the trial.
Subsequently, Justice Oyindamola Ogala inquired from Olaleye, the third defendant, about his duration in custody. Olaleye indicated that he had been confined at the Kirikiri Correctional Center for one year and two months.
Justice Ogala adjourned the proceedings until February 5, 2024, for trial and directed the issuance of witness summons.
(NAN)
