On Thursday, December 5, 2024, the Lagos State High Court at Tafawa Balewa Square directed the co-defendants of Chidinma Ojukwu to present their defense in the ongoing trial concerning the murder of Super TV CEO, Michael Usifo Ataga. Presiding Judge, Justice Yetunde Adesanya, dismissed the no-case submissions filed by the second defendant, Adedapo Quadri, and the third defendant, Chioma Egbuchu, stating that the prosecution had established sufficient evidence linking them to the charges.
Chidinma Ojukwu, alongside Quadri and Egbuchu, faces multiple charges related to Ataga’s death. Ojukwu and Quadri are charged with conspiracy, murder, and stabbing, while Egbuchu is accused of stealing Ataga’s iPhone 7. The prosecution alleges that Ojukwu and Quadri conspired to murder Ataga on June 15, 2021, by stabbing him multiple times in the neck and chest at a residence in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.
During the proceedings, defense counsels Babatunde Busari and M.I. Otuaka argued that the prosecution failed to provide substantial evidence against their clients, urging the court to dismiss the charges. However, the prosecution, led by Yusuf Sule, countered that material evidence had been presented, warranting the defendants to enter their defense.
After considering the arguments, Justice Adesanya ruled that the no-case submissions lacked merit and ordered Quadri and Egbuchu to open their defense. The case has been adjourned to February 20, 2025, for the continuation of the trial.
This development marks a significant progression in the high-profile case that has garnered widespread attention since Ataga’s death in 2021. The court’s decision underscores the importance of a thorough judicial process in addressing serious criminal allegations.
