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By correspondent in Ilorin.
Justice Haleema Salman of the Kwara State High Court has reserved judgment in the high-profile Offa bank robbery case for August 2, 2024. This decision marks a significant point in the six-year trial of six suspects accused of involvement in the deadly robbery.
On Monday, the court adopted the final written addresses from both the prosecution and defense teams. The prosecution, led by Rotimi Jacob (SAN), and the defense, represented by Mathew Emeribe, presented their arguments in court.
However, Justice Salman indicated that the August 2, 2024, judgment date is tentative.
The case dates back to the tragic events of April 5, 2018, when armed robbers attacked five commercial banks in Offa, Kwara State. The assault resulted in the deaths of over 30 individuals, including nine policemen.
Six suspects were initially arrested in connection with the robbery. They included a deceased policeman, Michael Adikwu, and five others: Ayoade Akinnibosun, Azeez Salahudeen, Niyi Ogundiran, Ibikunle Ogunleye, and Adeola Abraham. The trial officially commenced on November 11, 2018.
The surviving suspects face charges of criminal conspiracy, murder, and illegal possession of firearms. Michael Adikwu died in police custody, while the remaining five have pleaded not guilty. The nation now awaits the court’s final verdict on this significant case.
