The suspects will face a six-count amended charge, designated FHC/ABJ/CR/438/2026, filed by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF), Rotimi Oyedepo, representing the Federal Government.

The accused individuals include Mahmud Muhammad (also known as Abu Bara’a), Abbas Mukhtar, Abubakar Abbas (aka Isah Adam), Mallam Mahmuda Al-Nigeri, Abdulrazak Umar (aka Abu Khalifa and Abu Khalid), Yunusa Musa (aka Abu Yunusa Bin Musa), and Shamsu Adamu Sani (aka Abu Itisar). Their initial arraignment was delayed when Muhammad objected to being represented by a lawyer from the Legal Aid Council. During the proceedings, Deputy Director Akilaluyel Shettima announced his appearance on behalf of the defendants.

Muhammad, on behalf of the group, insisted on their previous attorney, Bala Dakum, to continue their defense, emphasizing their constitutional right to counsel of their choice. Oyedepo acknowledged this right, affirming that the DSS aims to uphold the law and seek justice rather than persecute the defendants. Consequently, Justice Saliu Ibrahim adjourned the case until Thursday for the re-arraignment, instructing that the defendants ensure Dakum’s presence in court and granting them access to consult with him to adequately prepare their defense, in accordance with legal requirements.