The Plateau State High Court sitting in Jos has fixed July 1 and 2, 2026, for the commencement of substantive hearing in the trial of suspects linked to the killing of residents of Agwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The attack claimed about 23 lives, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Five suspects were arrested in connection with the incident.
When the matter came up on Friday, proceedings focused on pre trial procedures and the Case Management Conference, a critical stage preceding the commencement of substantive hearing.
The suspects are facing charges bordering on criminal conspiracy, terrorism, culpable homicide, illegal possession of firearms, and illegal dealing in arms and ammunition, filed by the Plateau State Government.
However, the defendants pleaded not guilty to all the charges preferred against them.
During Friday’s sitting, the prosecution team from the Plateau State Ministry of Justice, under the supervision of the Attorney General, Barrister Philemon Dafi, informed the court that all necessary processes had been filed and exchanged among the parties.
The prosecution urged the court to adopt the submissions and issue its report in line with the provisions guiding criminal case management proceedings.
Counsel to the defendants also confirmed compliance with the court’s directives and adopted their respective responses.
The defence lawyers further told the court that the defendants were ready to open their defence during the trial.
In his ruling, Justice Gidelia Fomyon held that the case management process had been concluded in line with the law and adjourned the matter to May 26, 2026, for the court’s report on case management.
The judge subsequently fixed July 1 and 2, 2026, for definite hearing and witness appearances.