Court adjourns case of 12 suspected killers of Ajayi Crowther University student

The Oyo State High Court sitting in Awe has adjourned the case involving twelve suspected killers of Jeffrey Akro, an undergraduate student of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, until Tuesday, 10th December 2024.

The suspects, who face a two-count charge, pleaded not guilty when the case was called on Thursday.

The court’s decision follows an attempt to hear the defendants’ pleas and address their bail applications, which was not possible due to the judge’s suggestion that an amicable resolution be explored. Justice Ladiran Akintola deferred the proceedings to allow the parties involved to work toward a settlement.

Chief Victor Ewrhujakpor, counsel for the plaintiff and former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, who represented the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) of Oyo State, explained to the press, “We were in court to take the plea of the defendants and to address their bail application.

“However, the judge proposed that we attempt to settle the matter, given the gravity of the case and the age of the suspects involved.”

Ewrhujakpor, who led a team of two other lawyers, added that the judge had considered the possibility of resolving the matter outside the courtroom, aiming for a peaceful settlement. 

“If the cooperation from all parties is forthcoming, we are hopeful that by the next adjournment, we will have something positive to report,” he said.

A relative of the deceased, identified as Ayirimi Emami, also spoke briefly on the matter, echoing the sentiments of the legal team.

 ”Justice must prevail. We are following the counsel of our lawyer, and whatever resolution is reached, we will support it,” Emami stated.