Proceedings resumed on Thursday at the Plateau State High Court in Jos in the trial of suspects linked to the 2021 Anguwan Rukuba killings and the retaliatory attacks that followed in parts of the state capital.
One of the principal defendants, Adamu Alhassan, pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge filed against him by the Plateau State Government. The charges include criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide.
The prosecution, led by the Plateau State Commissioner for Justice, Philemon Daffi, told the court that it was fully prepared to proceed with the case.
Daffi informed the court that the charge sheet dated April 17, 2026, had been filed alongside exhibits and sworn witness statements intended to support the prosecution’s case against the defendant.
The trial is connected to the August 2021 attack on commuters along Rukuba Road in Jos, an incident that triggered a wave of violence and heightened tensions across Plateau State at the time.
During the hearing, security presence around the court premises was strengthened to maintain order and ensure the safety of all parties involved in the proceedings.
The presiding judge subsequently adjourned the matter to allow defence counsel adequate time to review the newly filed exhibits and prepare for the cross-examination of prosecution witnesses.
A new hearing date is expected to be communicated by the court registry.
The Plateau State Government said the trial represents part of ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and justice for victims affected by the violence.
Under Nigerian law, the defendant remains presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.