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The trial of Chidinma Ojukwu, an undergraduate student accused of murdering Super TV CEO Usifo Ataga, resumed at the Lagos High Court, Tafawa Balewa Square on Lagos Island. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Olusegun Bamidele testified that Chidinma confessed to spiking Ataga’s drink.
Chidinma, a 300-level Mass Communication student at the University of Lagos, is on trial alongside her sister, Chioma Egbuchu, and Adedapo Quadri.
During cross-examination by defense counsel Onwuka Egwu, a video depicting the last moments of Ataga and Chidinma was played, verifying items listed as exhibits. Bamidele confirmed that the items, including a belt and sneaker, were in the state shown in the video. The witness clarified that a blood-stained t-shirt mentioned in records wasn’t tendered in court but was sent to the DNA office for analysis.
Egwu questioned the officer about the electronic gadgets recovered, asking if Chidinma stated that the MacBook was a gift. Bamidele clarified that she said the MacBook and two phones belonged to the deceased.
Babatunde Busari, counsel to the second defendant, cross-examined Bamidele, inquiring about documents recovered from Adedapo Quadri. The officer confirmed they were not found in Quadri’s custody and he did not investigate their authenticity.
When asked about the drug Rophybol, Bamidele stated that Chidinma told him a dose could knock a person out, and he tendered a sample in evidence. However, he lacked specialized training in narcotics or pharmaceuticals.
Busari questioned Bamidele’s belief that Chidinma spiked the drink, to which the officer responded that, based on her confession, he believed her.
Justice Yetunde Adesanya adjourned the trial until January 29 for continuation.
