The trial of Tukur Mamu, a self-proclaimed negotiator accused of aiding terrorists, was delayed on Tuesday due to the absence of prosecution witnesses.
Mamu, who is facing a 10-count terrorism charge, was scheduled to appear before Justice Inyang Ekwo at the Federal High Court in Abuja. However, the prosecution counsel, David Kaswe, informed the court that a key witness had withdrawn unexpectedly, citing an inability to travel to Abuja. Additionally, another witness was unavailable because the exhibits keeper was absent.
Given these setbacks, the prosecution requested an adjournment, which the defense, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Johnson Usman, did not oppose. However, Usman raised concerns about Mamu’s treatment in custody.
According to Usman, his client has been denied the right to pray as a Muslim and has been prevented from seeing his relatives, despite a court order permitting visitations. He also alleged that the Department of State Services (DSS) refused to allow Mamu’s family to provide him with a prescribed BP Digital Kit to monitor his health, despite a court ruling granting him access to a doctor of his choice.
Justice Ekwo instructed both sides to resolve these issues and report back within seven days. The case has been adjourned to May 6, 7, and 8 for further proceedings.
Mamu, a Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, is accused of collecting ransom payments in various currencies on behalf of the Boko Haram terrorist group from the families of victims of the Abuja-Kaduna train attack. The Federal Government alleges that he received $420,000 and N21 million from hostages’ families and concealed the funds in his Kaduna residence. He is also accused of communicating with a known Boko Haram spokesperson.
The prosecution argues that Mamu’s actions violate the Terrorism Prevention (Prohibition) Act of 2022, but he has denied all charges.