Court Adjourns Murder Trial of Former Oyo State Parks Chairman ‘Auxiliary’

The trial of Alhaji Mukaila Lamidi, popularly known as Auxiliary, a former Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Oyo State, has been adjourned to December 5, 2024. Auxiliary is facing a 17-count charge, including murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, and illegal possession of firearms.

The charges against him, which include possession of an AK-47 assault rifle and two SMG rifles with magazines, are in violation of Section 1(2)(a) and (b) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, CAP RII, Vol.14, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

The trial is being heard by Justice Bayo Taiwo of Fiat Court 2, Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, Ibadan, following its reassignment from Justice O. A. Adetujoye. This change occurred after Auxiliary’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), opposed Justice Adetujoye hearing multiple cases involving his client, leading to the case file being returned to the Chief Judge for reassignment.

During Wednesday’s hearing, Auxiliary pleaded not guilty to the charges. The prosecution, led by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Mr. S. O. Adeoye, opened its case and called two witnesses: Mr. Fatai Isiaka (Prosecution Witness 1) and Mr. Ademola Johnson (PW2). Both witnesses provided oral testimony detailing incidents involving the defendant.

According to their accounts, Auxiliary, in his capacity as Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee of the Park Management System (PMS), allegedly led an attack against suspected factional members of the proscribed NURTW. The incident reportedly occurred on May 29, 2023, at the Ikolaba residence of Governor Seyi Makinde during celebrations marking the governor’s second-term swearing-in.

The witnesses were later cross-examined by the defence counsel, Mr. Ojo.

The prosecution has indicated that 16 additional witnesses will be called to testify against the defendant. The court emphasized the importance of proceeding promptly with the trial, urging the parties to prepare for the subsequent hearings.

The defence counsel hinted at plans to apply for bail, although the court deferred consideration of the bail application until subsequent proceedings.

The case has been adjourned to December 5, 2024, for the continuation of the trial. The outcome of the proceedings is being closely watched, as it involves high-profile allegations tied to events at the heart of the Oyo State government.