The trial of Chidimma Ojukwu, a University of Lagos Mass Communication student, and others for the murder of businessman Usifo Ataga continued on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at the Lagos High Court. Forensic expert Dr. Richard Somari testified that the DNA blood sample found on Ojukwu's red dress matched that of the victim, Ataga.
Ojukwu, along with Quadri and Egbuchu, faces charges of conspiracy, murder, and stabbing, while Egbuchu faces an additional charge of stealing Ataga's iPhone 7. The trio were arraigned on Oct. 12, 2021, by the Lagos State Government.
Dr. Somari, the eleventh prosecution witness, testified that his office received 21 items for evidence, including Ojukwu's red dress, an army green t-shirt, and a DNA sample from Ojukwu. He stated that the DNA on the red dress matched that of Ataga, but did not match Ojukwu's or the other suspects' DNA.
Under cross-examination, Dr. Somari explained the procedures for handling forensic evidence and testified that toxicology reports were also part of the evidence in the case. He clarified that he was not a toxicologist and did not conduct toxicology analysis.
The defense counsels requested to play a video of the crime scene, during which Dr. Somari confirmed that some samples mentioned in his report were not tested. He also stated that no DNA sample was taken from Quadri.
Justice Yetunde Adesanya adjourned the case until May 30 for continuation of the trial.
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