Prosecutor Raises Concerns About Suspects’ Custody
The prosecution in the trial concerning the murder that occurred in Anwa Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area in April 2026, expressed significant concerns about releasing the suspects from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). During proceedings at the Plateau State High Court on Thursday, State Attorney General Philemon Audu Duffy emphasized to the court the potential risks associated with allowing the suspects to leave DSS custody.
Court Proceedings and Further Detention Requested
Duffy informed the court that a Case Management Conference (CMC) had been held alongside the initiation of charges against the suspects. He requested the presiding judge, Justice Danladi Longden, to allow for the further remand of the accused in DSS custody and to schedule a date for the CMC. The Attorney General argued that additional time was necessary for investigations, particularly as one of the primary suspects remains at large. He warned that releasing the remaining suspects could compromise the ongoing inquiry.
Defense Challenges Continued Custody
Lead defense attorney Mustafa Shabat Ibrahim (SAN) countered the prosecution’s request, stating he had no objections to scheduling a CMC but opposed the ongoing detention of his client in DSS facilities. Ibrahim highlighted the difficulties faced by defense attorneys in accessing their clients under the current arrangement. In response, Duffy refuted this claim, noting that in his extensive legal career spanning 37 years, he had never encountered restrictions on attorney access by the DSS.
Adjournment and Future Hearing Dates
The CMC has been adjourned until May 8, 2026. However, Judge Longden ordered that the four defendants remain in custody of the secret police during this period. This case follows the recent arraignment of the suspects by the Plateau State government just a week prior.
Government Responses and Financial Assistance
During a visit to Jos earlier this month, President Bola Tinubu committed to ensuring justice for the victims of the Anwa Rukuba attack. On Tuesday, he announced a financial allocation of 2 billion naira to support victims affected by the violent incident. The state government has formally charged the four suspects—Isa Umar Ibrahim, Auwal Abubakar (alias Auwal Dogo), and Musa Abubakar Ibrahim (alias Yalolo)—with conspiracy to commit terrorism and other related offenses.
Details of Charges and Allegations
Additionally, Adamu Issa Alhassan, the only defendant arraigned in Courtroom 9, faces charges of conspiracy, murder, illegal possession of firearms, and illegal trafficking of arms and ammunition. The suspects were apprehended between April 3 and April 10, 2026. According to the Attorney General, their alleged acts are in violation of Section 269 of the Plateau State Criminal Law Act of 2017, which carries severe penalties under Section 270.
Context of Violence and Government Stance
Reports indicate that on March 28, 2025, several communities within Bokkos and Bassa local government areas were attacked by suspected herdsmen, resulting in over 30 fatalities, including children. In light of these recent events, many citizens have called for the cancellation of the “Experience the Highlands, Art Meets Fashion” program. However, Governor Caleb Mutofan has dismissed these requests, stating that canceling the event would only serve to empower the attackers. He underscored the need for resilience and a collective commitment to move forward while condemning the violence as an act of genocide rather than a mere conflict between farmers and herders.
During his recent visit, President Tinubu met with victims to assess the repercussions of the violence, reaffirming his pledge for justice and urging peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
