By Sahel Reporters – News
In a shocking turn of events, the Chief Magistrate Court III in Yola, Adamawa State, on Friday, ordered the remand of renowned philanthropist Dr. Emmanuel N. Musa and three others over the alleged murder of Thomas Godwin Zamfara, the News Platform reports.
Presiding Magistrate Uwani Danladi Mohammed directed that the suspects remain in prison custody until July 7, 2025, pending legal advice from the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP), Ministry of Justice, Adamawa State.
According to the First Information Report (FIR), the deceased was brutally attacked on April 15, 2025, while returning to Kala’a from Fadama Rake. He was later confirmed dead at the hospital. The prosecution claims that Dr. Musa orchestrated and financed the assault that led to Zamfara’s death.
The defendants—Godwin Chukukuyada, Danlami Nuhu, Ibrahim Bakari (aka Mai Cross), and Stephen Peter (still at large)—were arraigned on charges of criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide, offenses under Sections 60 and 191 of the Adamawa State Penal Code, 2018 (as amended).
Drama unfolded in the courtroom as defense counsel G. C. Adikwu objected to the prosecution’s move to substitute the initial FIR. The court, however, overruled the objection and proceeded to interpret the new FIR to the defendants in Hausa. Dr. Musa, appearing weak, had to be seated during the proceedings due to health concerns.
Legal observers have raised questions about the court’s failure to take a plea from the defendants. Adikwu insisted that the law mandates defendants to be asked whether they plead guilty or not once they acknowledge understanding the charges.
As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes remain on the court’s next move when the case resumes on July 7.
