The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, September 9, directed that ten suspects be detained by the Nigeria Police Force’s Intelligence Response Team.
These individuals face allegations related to the illegal importation of firearms and ammunition valued at N4 billion, which took place in June 2024.
The suspects—Ali Ofoma, Okechukwu Charles, Kingsley Chinasa, Oroghodo Maxwell, Akinkuade Segun, Augustine Elechi, Osumini Kennedy, Ajala Ojo, Faboro Oluwatimilehin, and Tolulope Ogundepo—appeared before Justice Emeka Nwite. They are charged with six counts encompassing terrorism and illegal arms importation, among other offenses.
All ten defendants in case number FHC/ABJ/CR/463/2024 pleaded not guilty.
Legal representation for the defendants was as follows: Ejeri Ekong for the 1st and 2nd defendants, C. C. Agigi for the 3rd defendant, G. O. Igule for the 4th defendant, Hamid Ogunniyi for the 5th, 9th, and 10th defendants, and Samuel Ogala for the 8th defendant.
The 6th and 7th defendants appeared without legal counsel. Although Deji Adeyanju and George Ogala, present in court for another case, offered pro bono representation, their offer was declined.
The 6th defendant informed the court that he received the relevant documents only on Sunday night, explaining his lack of legal representation. He assured the court that he would obtain a lawyer.
Due to the absence of counsel for the 6th and 7th defendants, they were unable to enter their pleas. Justice Nwite thus postponed the case until September 9, 2024, for arraignment and ordered that the defendants be held in the IRT’s custody.