The trial of seven individuals charged with the alleged murder of Mojisola Awesu, a final-year student of the Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa, was stalled on Monday at the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin due to the absence of legal representation for two of the principal accused persons.
The accused; Happiness Adebayo, Timileyin Kolawole, Adebayo Adeniyi, Bukola Adeniyi, Adeoye Adeola, Lawal Aminat, and Peter Bulus, were arraigned before Justice Ibrahim Yusuf on a six-count charge, including conspiracy, murder, disappearance and destruction of evidence, and unlawful disposal of a corpse. The case has drawn significant public interest due to the shocking nature of the alleged crime.
The prosecution alleges that on August 9, 2024, Awesu was lured to Ilorin by Happiness Adebayo and Timileyin Kolawole, where she was murdered before her remains were disposed of at a dumpsite in the Warah community.
The circumstances surrounding her death have fueled speculation and outrage, particularly among student groups and civil society organizations in Kwara State.
Further charges implicate Adebayo’s parents, Adebayo Adeniyi and Bukola Adeniyi, for their alleged involvement in conspiring to destroy evidence related to the crime.
Additionally, three hotel workers; Adeoye Adeola, Lawal Aminat, and Peter Bulus are accused of aiding in the disposal of Awesu’s body, an act that violates the Kwara State Prohibition of Dealing in Human Parts Law, 2018.
During Monday’s proceedings, the absence of legal representation for Adebayo and Kolawole prevented the court from hearing the pleas of the accused.
Justice Yusuf consequently ordered the remand of both principal suspects in a correctional facility until legal counsel is secured.
“The court cannot proceed with the arraignment in the absence of legal representation for the accused. Proper legal proceedings require that all defendants be afforded the right to counsel to ensure fair hearing and justice,” Justice Yusuf stated.
In light of the development, the case was adjourned to February 24, 2025, for the proper arraignment of all defendants.
The case has sparked widespread concern, with legal experts highlighting the serious nature of the charges. Under the Penal Code Law of Kwara State (2006) and the Prohibition of Dealing in Human Parts Law (2018), the accused, if found guilty, could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Human rights activists and student associations have called for a thorough and transparent trial. “We demand justice for Mojisola. The law must take its full course, and all those involved in this heinous crime must be held accountable,” said a spokesperson for the National Association of Kwara State Students.
The prosecution is expected to present substantial evidence, including forensic reports, witness testimonies, and surveillance footage, to establish the culpability of the accused. The adjournment of the case, however, has raised concerns about potential delays in justice delivery.
With the new hearing date set for February 24, all eyes will be on the Kwara State judiciary to ensure a fair trial. The case is likely to set a precedent for similar criminal proceedings in the state, particularly regarding the enforcement of laws against murder, evidence tampering, and improper disposal of human remains.
Meanwhile, family members of the deceased continue to mourn, seeking closure and justice for their daughter’s tragic demise.
This case remains one of the most closely watched criminal trials in Kwara State, with implications not just for the accused but also for the state’s judicial system and law enforcement agencies.
