Dramatic Twist in Offa Robbery Trial as Police Arrest Suspect’s Sister
The trial of the April 5, 2018 deadly bank robbery in Offa, Kwara State, took a dramatic turn on Friday with the arrest of Omolara Ogundiran, sister of one of the suspects, by the Kwara State Police Command. Omolara, a graduate of Ire Poly, Osogbo, is the younger sister of the 5th defendant, Niyi Ogundiran. She was taken away around past 3:40 pm by police operatives after the day’s trial.
The defence counsel, Barrister Mathias Emeribe, expressed uncertainty about the reason for Omolara’s arrest, noting that she is one of their witnesses who came to tender documents. He sought the protection of the court to ensure her testimony remains consistent.
Prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Jacob (SAN), highlighted discrepancies in Omolara’s testimony, alleging that she had attempted to deceive the court. He emphasized the consequences of such actions.
Earlier, Omolara had testified that she went to Osogbo to collect a receipt for motor spare parts bought by Niyi on the day of the robbery. However, during cross-examination, she admitted that she could not remember the specific date she went to Osogbo, stating that it was last year (2023) when she collected the receipt.
In her ruling, Justice Halimat Salman rejected the receipt as evidence, describing it as a sham and stating that the defendant cannot seek to tender evidence through the backdoor. The case was adjourned for the adoption of written addresses by the counsel.
In a previous hearing on January 16, 2024, Niyi Ogundiran, the fifth defendant, had claimed not to remember his date of birth, age, or the number of years he stayed in secondary school. He also alleged that his statement to the police was made under duress and that he was tortured.
The trial involves Ayoade Akinnibosun and four others, who are standing trial for the robbery that resulted in over 30 deaths, including nine policemen. Michael Adikwu, another suspect, died in police custody, while the remaining five pleaded not guilty to charges including criminal conspiracy to rob banks, murder, and illegal possession of firearms.
Daily Trust
