The Federal High Court in Abuja has admitted a video showing the killing of Deacon John Olaleye, an abducted teacher in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as evidence in the trial of five suspected members of the Ansaru terrorist group.
Justice Ibrahim Salim admitted the recording as Exhibit Oyo1 after it was played in court. A list containing the names of 30 alleged Ansaru members reportedly demanded for release by the group was also admitted as Exhibit Oyo2.
A Department of State Services (DSS) operative, identified as witness BBB, told the court that the terrorists killed Olaleye after accusing the Federal Government of delaying their demand for the release of detained members in exchange for the abducted pupils and teachers.
The witness said Abubakar Abbas, the second defendant, was among those whose release the group demanded. He added that the terrorists had threatened to kill the remaining captives if their demands were not met.
The five defendants are standing trial over their alleged involvement in the May 15, 2026, abduction of pupils and staff from schools in Oriire. The prosecution alleges that the attack was intended to pressure the government into releasing detained members of the group.
Justice Salim adjourned the case until November 19 and 20 for continuation of the trial.
