The Plateau State High Court in Jos has scheduled July 1 and 2, 2026, for the start of the substantive hearing in the trial of five suspects linked to the attack on the Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area. The incident resulted in the deaths of approximately 23 people, with many others injured. The suspects face multiple charges, including criminal conspiracy, terrorism, culpable homicide, illegal possession of firearms, and illegal dealing in arms and ammunition, as filed by the Plateau State Government. All five have pleaded not guilty to the charges. Proceedings on Friday were centered on pre-trial procedures and a Case Management Conference, a necessary step before full trial begins. The prosecution, led by the Plateau State Ministry of Justice under Attorney General Barrister Philemon Dafi, confirmed that all required legal documents had been filed and exchanged. Prosecutors asked the court to adopt their submissions and issue a report in accordance with criminal case management rules. Defence counsel confirmed compliance with court directives and adopted their responses. They also informed the court that the defendants are prepared to begin their defence during the trial. In her ruling, Justice Gidelia Fomyon stated that the case management phase had been completed according to the law. She adjourned the matter to May 26, 2026, for the court's case management report and set July 1 and 2, 2026, for the definitive hearing, including witness appearances.
Justice Fomyon is overseeing a trial over an attack that killed 23 people, yet the court has scheduled the substantive hearing more than two years after the incident. The five suspects remain in custody while victims' families await resolution. A 2026 hearing date means prolonged uncertainty for the affected communities. The pace of the judicial process offers no assurance of timely justice.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
