Defence counsel’s absence halts trial of Abuja businessman’s alleged killers

The trial of two men accused of murdering Abuja-based businessman, the late Chinedu Eze, was on Tuesday stalled at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Jabi, due to the absence of the defence counsel.

The defendants, George Eze, 48, and Victor Nweze, 19, are standing trial before Justice M.S. Idris on a six-count charge bordering on culpable homicide, unlawful killing, and illegal conversion of the deceased’s shop, among others. The offences are said to contravene Sections 97, 221, and 310 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.

According to the prosecution, the defendants allegedly killed the late Eze, a popular stationery shop owner in Bwari Area Council, a suburb of the FCT.

When the case came up for the continuation of hearing, neither the defence counsel nor the defendants were present in court.

Barrister Stanley Nwodo, prosecuting on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, informed the court that the defence team had not provided any reason for their absence.

Following the development, Justice Idris adjourned the matter to November 10, 2025, for continuation of the hearing.