Proceedings in the trial of Olubode Owoeye, popularly known as Bode Itaapa, and two others, are scheduled to reopen tomorrow, Monday 16th March, 2026 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the case will continue with the cross-examination of the defendants.
The trial, before Justice Obiora Uguwatu of Court 10 of the Federal High Court, follows the earlier refusal of bail applications filed by the defendants in the case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/323/2024, instituted by the Inspector General of Police.
At the first hearing, the defendants also told the court that the written statements attributed to them were made under duress, a claim that forms part of issues expected to arise during the evidentiary stage of the trial.
KAKAKIOODUA recalls that the Inspector General of the Nigeria Police Force filed a seven-count charge against Olubode Owoeye (a.k.a. Bode Itaapa) and David Samuel, accusing them of conspiring with other suspects currently at large between 2021 and 2022 to commit felony through acts of terrorism.
According to the prosecution, the defendants allegedly moved about heavily armed with the intention of instilling fear among residents and were linked to the killing of four individuals identified as Sigo, Eleran, Tafa, and Sikiru Omo Alhaja.
During an earlier sitting, the charges were read to the defendants, and they pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Following their plea, counsel to the defendants, Dr. Igwe (ACP Rtd.), filed applications seeking bail for the accused persons. The prosecution, however, opposed the requests and urged the court to deny them.
After hearing submissions from both parties, Justice Uguwatu refused the bail applications, ordering that the defendants remain in custody as the trial continues.
The court is expected to resume proceedings tomorrow, Monday, with cross-examination set to commence as the case moves further into the evidentiary stage..
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