Offa Bank Robbery Trial Takes a Twist: Suspect’s Sister Arrested in Court

In a surprising turn of events during the ongoing trial of the Offa bank robbery on April 5, 2018, in Kwara State, police arrested Omolara Ogundiran, the sister of the 5th defendant, Niyi Ogundiran.

Omolara, a graduate of Ire Poly, Osogbo, was apprehended by Kwara State Police Command operatives immediately after the trial session that commenced at 9:00 am and concluded around 3:40 pm. The reason for her arrest remains unclear.

Defence counsel, Barrister Mathias Emeribe, expressed his intention to investigate the grounds for the arrest, stating, “Why they are arresting her, I don’t know. But she is one of our witnesses who had come to tender documents.”

During proceedings, Emeribe sought the court’s protection, ensuring that she would only be taken away after the court ruled on the matter. Prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Jacob (SAN), asserted consequences for attempts to deceive the court.

Omolara, referred to as PW11, had earlier provided evidence, stating that she went to Osogbo to collect a receipt for motor spare parts bought by Niyi on the day of the robbery. However, during cross-examination, discrepancies emerged, leading the judge to reject the receipt as evidence.

The presiding judge, Justice Halimat Salman, adjourned the case until Tuesday, April 9, 2024, for the adoption of written addresses by the counsel.

The trial, which commenced on November 11, 2018, involves five defendants, including the deceased policeman Michael Adikwu. The suspects face charges related to the bank robbery, which resulted in the loss of over 30 lives, including nine policemen.