The trial of Tukur Mamu, the self-proclaimed “terror negotiator,” faced another setback on Tuesday as key witnesses failed to appear in court.
Mamu, who is facing terrorism-related charges for allegedly facilitating ransom payments to Boko Haram, was scheduled to appear before Justice Inyang Ekwo at the Federal High Court in Abuja. However, the prosecution, represented by David Kaswe from the Attorney-General’s office, informed the court that their next witness had backed out at the last minute, while another crucial witness was unavailable due to missing exhibits.
“This is the challenge we have, my Lord,” Kaswe said, requesting an adjournment.
The defense counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Johnson Usman, did not oppose the adjournment but raised serious concerns over Mamu’s treatment in detention. He claimed that the Department of State Services (DSS) had denied Mamu access to prayers, family visits, and medical care—including a prescribed blood pressure monitoring kit.
Justice Ekwo directed both parties to resolve these issues within seven days and scheduled the continuation of the trial for May 6, 7, and 8.
Mamu was arrested in 2023 and charged with aiding terrorism by allegedly collecting over $420,000 and ₦21 million from families of victims abducted in the infamous Kaduna train attack. The prosecution claims he funneled these funds to Boko Haram operatives and exchanged voice messages with a known Boko Haram spokesperson.
Despite pleading not guilty, Mamu remains in detention as the case continues to unfold.
