The Lagos State High Court sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) has cleared the way for Chidinma Ojukwu’s defence as the court ordered the release of crucial exhibits in her ongoing murder trial over the death of Super TV Chief Executive Officer, Michael Usifo Ataga.
Justice Yetunde Adesanya made the order following an application by Ojukwu’s lead counsel, Onwuka Egwu, who argued that the defence team required access to the items to properly prepare their case.
The exhibits, including several mobile phones, laptops, and SIM cards belonging to both the deceased and the defendants, were earlier released to the nominal complainant on bond by the prosecution.
Among the requested items were an iPhone 11 Pro, an iPhone XS, an iPhone 7 Plus, a 2019 MacBook Pro, an HP laptop, and two 9Mobile SIM cards allegedly owned by Ojukwu.
The defence also sought access to Ataga’s devices, including an iPhone 8, an iPhone 12 Pro Max, and a MacBook Pro 13.
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Justice Adesanya ruled that not all items sought were in the custody of the prosecution, but emphasized that every accused person must be granted fair access to evidence relevant to their defence.
Following the court’s directive, prosecution counsel Yusuf Sule presented three of the requested items an iPhone 7, iPhone 11, and HP laptop for release to Ojukwu’s legal team.
Only the third defendant, Chioma Egbuchu, appeared in court during the proceedings, while Ojukwu and the second defendant, Adedapo Quadri, were absent reportedly due to the nationwide protest.
The case was adjourned to October 27, November 6, 11, and 12, 2025, for continuation of trial.
The high-profile case, which began in 2021 after Ataga was found dead in a Lekki hotel room, has now entered a crucial phase as the prosecution has closed its case and the defence prepares to tell its side of the story.
