AGS NEWS – The trial of five individuals identified as loyalists of Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, accused of terrorism offenses, is set to recommence at the Federal High Court in Abuja today, March 12.

The defendants, namely Chime Eguma Ezebalike, Prince Lukman Oladele, Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga Donald, and Ochueja Thankgod, face charges brought by the police relating to alleged acts of terrorism, including the invasion, vandalism, and arson of the Rivers State House of Assembly last year.

According to a hearing notice issued by the Court on Monday, proceedings will be presided over by Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon and are scheduled to commence at 9 am.

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The defendants have been served the notice through their respective legal representatives.

During the trial, the Inspector General of Police, represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Simon Lough, is expected to present witnesses testifying against the accused to substantiate the charges.

It is anticipated that the defendants may contest the jurisdiction of the Court to conduct the trial in Abuja and argue their respective motions challenging this aspect.

The charges against the defendants, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/25/2024, also include allegations of the murder of a Superintendent of Police, Bako Agbashim, and five police informants in Ahoada community.

The defendants are accused of employing various cult groups to perpetrate violence, disrupting public peace, and damaging public properties.

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Having been denied bail due to the seriousness of the charges, the defendants have been held at Kuje Prison in Abuja pending the conclusion of the trial.