The Plateau State High Court in Jos, today Thursday, 21st August, 2025, has approved bail for 20 suspects implicated in the tragic killing of 13 wedding guests in the Mangun community, Mangu Local Government Area.
The ruling followed a defense motion presented to the court.
The courtroom drama unfolded as Justice Nafisa Lawal Musa, serving as the vacation judge, heard arguments from the defendants’ legal team led by Senior Advocate Garba Pwul. The accused had faced charges stemming from a violent attack on June 12, 2025, when the victims were en route to a family wedding in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area.
Initial arraignment by the police listed four counts against the individuals, including conspiracy to commit a crime, culpable homicide, use of dangerous weapons causing damage, and infliction of serious injury. These allegations were brought under Sections 59, 220, 313, and 189 of the Plateau State Law enacted in 2017.
Earlier attempts by the defense to secure temporary freedom were unsuccessful due to court recess schedules, prompting them to resubmit their plea to a judge available during the break. On August 11, a motion was filed, invoking a legal opinion issued by the Director of Public Prosecution within the Attorney-General’s chambers. This guidance recommended either the unconditional discharge of the applicants or their immediate release while awaiting the continuation of proceedings.
Upholding principles of fairness and openness, Justice Musa acceded to the defense’s request, allowing the suspects to be freed on bail pending the resumed hearing slated for October 13, 2025. The decision does not nullify earlier court acknowledgments of the matter but ensures judicial transparency.
Garba Pwul, speaking after the hearing, expressed relief at the outcome, stating,
This decision restates our unresilent efforts to justice and fair treatment under the law. We trust the court will continue to provide fair remedies as the case progresses.
A representative from the prosecution office declined to comment, indicating ongoing review of the ruling.
The legal proceedings remain under careful watch by community members and legal experts alike, as the case advances toward the rescheduled session in October.
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