Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: John. O
A prosecution witness from the Department of State Services (DSS) told the Plateau State High Court in Jos on June 19, 2026, that Adamu Alhassan Isa, popularly known as Shagari Bangai, confessed to leading more than 100 armed men in attacks on communities across Plateau State, including parts of Riyom Local Government Area, during his trial over the deadly Palm Sunday killings in Angwa Rukuba that left about 30 people dead.
The testimony was presented before Justice Danladi Longden during the accelerated hearing of a criminal case involving Isa and four other suspects accused of participating in violent attacks that have contributed to insecurity in several Plateau communities. According to the DSS operative, Isa admitted in a confessional statement to taking part in coordinated assaults on communities in Vom and surrounding villages in Riyom Local Government Area.
The Plateau State Government is prosecuting Isa alongside Isa Umar Ibrahim, Auwalu Abubakar, also known as Auwalu Dogo, Musa Abubakar Ibrahim, popularly called Yaroro, and Ado Ibrahim, who remains at large. The defendants are facing charges of criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, unlawful possession of firearms, and illegal dealing in arms and ammunition in connection with the Angwa Rukuba attack that occurred on Palm Sunday in Jos North Local Government Area.
During the court proceedings, the DSS witness further testified that investigators discovered more than N4 million in Isa's bank account following his arrest. The funds, according to the witness, are being examined as part of ongoing investigations into alleged terrorism financing and other activities linked to the attacks.
The Angwa Rukuba killings formed part of a series of violent incidents that have affected communities across Plateau State in recent years. The attacks have resulted in deaths, injuries, displacement of residents, and destruction of homes and farmlands, prompting repeated security interventions by federal and state authorities.
During cross-examination, defence counsel Mustapha Shaba requested certified true copies of statements made by both arresting and investigating officers. Shaba told the court that the defence intended to compare the certified documents with photocopies earlier provided by prosecutors to verify their accuracy and consistency.
Following the application, Justice Longden adjourned the case until July 3, 2026, directing the prosecution to furnish the requested documents and prepare for the continuation of the trial.
The proceedings are being closely watched by residents, security stakeholders, and families of victims seeking justice for those killed during the Angwa Rukuba attack. The outcome of the trial is expected to influence ongoing efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and address persistent security challenges in Plateau State.
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