By Seven suspects accused of murdering final-year student Mojisola Awesu have pleaded not guilty before Justice Ibrahim Yusuf of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin. The case, which has drawn public attention, resumed on Tuesday with all the defendants present.
Mojisola Awesu, a student of the Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa, was allegedly murdered under circumstances that sparked outrage and calls for justice from students and rights groups across the state.
During the last court session, Justice Yusuf ordered the suspects to be remanded in custody due to the absence of their legal counsel. This time, the defence team was present, but tensions flared over procedural issues.
The prosecution, led by the State Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Idowu Akande, asked the court to proceed immediately with the hearing after the suspects entered their pleas. However, the defence pushed back, arguing that they were only prepared for arraignment, not for a full hearing.
Justice Yusuf noted both arguments but adjourned the matter to allow both sides to properly prepare. The court emphasized the need for a fair process while also recognizing the importance of timely justice.
The murder case continues to fuel public interest in Kwara, with students from Awesu’s college and members of the public following proceedings closely, hoping for closure and justice for the slain student.
