The absence of witnesses on Monday stalled the ongoing trial of Offa robbery suspects.
The suspects are accused of robbing banks and killing many people in Offa local government area of Kwara State in April, 2018.
The trial was stalled at the State High Court in Ilorin due to the lack of witnesses and exhibits by police to prosecute the case.
The Director of Public Prosecution, Jimoh Mumini while addressing the court on Monday said he informed the AIG David Igbodo at the force headquarters in Abuja on three occasions on the need to produce the witnesses in court.
He explained further that the AIG then directed him to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari in charge of the investigation.
Kyari he said yesterday informed him that they will be in Ilorin for the trial today which he said will not meet up with the court sitting.
He therefore asked for adjournment which was not opposed by the defense counsel, Mathias Emeribe.
Justice Halimah Salman while ruling vacated the order of definite hearing earlier given on November 13 and adjourned till January 18.
Mumini told journalists there is no ambiguity in the case. He however wondered how all the witnesses will be from Abuja and none from Ilorin or Offa where the incident took place.
“We are prepared, the Ministry of Justice is prepared. The case is clear, there is no ambiguity about this case. But we cannot make cases from outside witnesses,” he said.
The defense counsel told journalists that he is disappointed over non-availability of the witnesses.
“I am disappointed. We are hopeful that they will do the needful on the 18th and come up with witnesses. Infact, I am supposed to have the evidence before that day, so that I will have the opportunity to prepare properly for the accused.
Source: Channels