Seven suspects charged with the alleged murder of a final-year student of the Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa, Mojisola Awesu, have pleaded not guilty before the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin.
The arraignment took place on Tuesday before Justice Ibrahim Yusuf.
The accused include the prime suspects, Happiness Adebayo and Timileyin Kolawole. They face a six-count charge of conspiracy, murder, destruction of evidence, and the dumping of Awesu’s corpse.
Adebayo’s parents, Adebayo Adeniyi and Bukola Adeniyi, were also charged with helping to hide evidence — an offence under the Penal Code Law of Kwara State, 2006.
Additionally, three hotel staff members — Adeoye Adeola, Lawal Aminat, and Peter Bulus — were accused of conspiring to dispose of Awesu’s body at a dumpsite along Warah Road, Ilorin. Their actions reportedly violate the Kwara State Prohibition of Dealing in Human Parts Law, 2018.
During the court session, the Director of Public Prosecution in Kwara State, Ayoola Akande, said the prosecution was ready to begin the trial following the defendants’ not-guilty plea.
However, the defence lawyers asked for more time, saying they were not prepared since the previous court date was only for arraignment.
Justice Yusuf, who had earlier ordered the remand of the suspects due to the absence of one of their lawyers, stressed the importance of a speedy trial.
“This is a criminal case involving life. There should be no waste of time,” he said.
The judge adjourned the case to March 12, 2025, for hearing.
