The trial of seven individuals accused of the gruesome murder of Mojisola Awesu, a final-year student of the Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa, took a new turn on Tuesday as all the defendants pleaded not guilty before Justice Ibrahim Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin.
The accused, facing six charges including conspiracy, murder, destruction of evidence, and unlawful disposal of a corpse, were arraigned before the court as the prosecution, led by the Kwara State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mr. Ayoola Akande, expressed readiness to proceed with the case.
Prime Suspects and Allegations
Among those standing trial are Happiness Adebayo and Timileyin Kolawole, identified as the prime suspects accused of conspiring to cause Mojisola’s death on August 9, 2024. The prosecution alleges that the duo played a direct role in the events that led to the student’s untimely demise.
Additionally, Happiness Adebayo’s parents, Adebayo Adeniyi and Bukola Adeniyi, are facing charges of conspiracy, destruction of evidence, and aiding in the disappearance of crucial materials linked to the crime.
Three hotel workers, Adeoye Adeola, Lawal Aminat, and Peter Bulus, are also on trial, accused of conspiring to dispose of Mojisola’s body by dumping it along Warah Road, Ilorin. Their actions, the prosecution argues, violate the Kwara State Prohibition of Dealing in Human Parts Law of 2018 and other sections of the Penal Code Law of Kwara State.
Legal Proceedings and Court Ruling
During Tuesday’s proceedings, the defendants maintained their innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges brought against them. The prosecution, in response, was prepared to proceed with the trial immediately. However, the defense counsel objected, stating that they were unprepared for a full hearing since the last adjournment was meant solely for arraignment.
Justice Ibrahim Yusuf, presiding over the case, emphasized the need for a swift and efficient trial, given the severity of the allegations.
“This is a criminal case involving human life. The trial must be conducted without unnecessary delays,” the judge stated.
Due to the absence of one of the defense counsel, Justice Yusuf ruled that all the defendants remain in a correctional facility pending further hearings. He then adjourned the case until March 12, 2025, when full proceedings will commence.
Public Reactions and Next Steps
The case has drawn significant public attention, with many demanding justice for Mojisola Awesu. Legal experts believe the upcoming hearings will be critical in determining the fate of the accused. If convicted, they could face severe penalties under Sections 97, 221, and 167 of the Penal Code CAP. P4, Laws of Kwara State, 2006, and Section 9 of the 2018 Prohibition of Dealing in Human Parts Law.
As the legal battle unfolds, the trial is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding Mojisola’s tragic death, offering hope to her family and the general public that justice will be served.
