Proceedings in the trial of Olubode Owoeye, popularly known as Bode Itaapa, and two others at the Federal High Court in Abuja were on Monday, March 16, 2026, adjourned to April 20 following the absence of the key officer.
The case, which came up before Justice Obiora Uguwatu of Court 10, could not proceed as scheduled due to the failure of the key officer to appear in court.
This development led to arguments between counsel to the defendants and the prosecution, after which the court fixed April 20, 2026, as the next adjourned date for continuation of trial.
Following the brief proceedings, the defendants were returned to the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The trial, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/323/2024, was instituted by the Inspector General of Police against the defendants over allegations bordering on terrorism and conspiracy.
At previous sittings, the defendants had pleaded not guilty to a seven-count charge, which includes allegations of conspiring between 2021 and 2022 to commit acts of terrorism and moving about armed to instill fear among residents.
The prosecution also linked the defendants to the alleged killing of four individuals identified as Sigo, Eleran, Tafa, and Sikiru Omo Alhaja.
Earlier, the court had denied bail applications filed by counsel to the defendants, Dr. Igwe (ACP Rtd.), ordering that they remain in custody pending the determination of the case.
The defendants had also claimed that statements attributed to them were obtained under duress—an issue expected to be addressed as the trial progresses.
The matter is now expected to resume on April 20, 2026, with cross-examination of witnesses set to continue.
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