Abuja Court Commences Trial Of 20 Former Leaders Of Nigerian Petroleum Workers, NUPENG Charged With Murder

The trial of 20 former leaders of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers branch of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) began at the FCT High Court. They face charges including attempted murder, breach of peace, and assault. The defendants, including former national chairman Lucky Osesua, were arraigned before Justice Yusuf Halilu under suit number CR/042/202. According to the prosecution, the accused allegedly attacked NUPENG president Williams Akporeha, general secretary Wale Afolabi, and newly elected National Chairman Augustine Egbon. The incident reportedly occurred at the PTD’s office in Abuja on November 1. The charges include causing grievous bodily harm to several individuals.During the trial’s commencement, five witnesses were presented by the prosecution. The first witness, NUPENG’s general secretary Wale Afolabi, testified about being assaulted and losing consciousness during the alleged attack. He detailed his injuries and the medical treatment received thereafter. The witness also identified hospital reports and other documents related to the incident, which were admitted as evidence.The defense cross-examined Afolabi, questioning his awareness of recent union elections and the circumstances of the alleged attack given his unconscious state during part of the incident. The trial was adjourned until October 10 by Justice Yusuf Halilu for further proceedings.The case revolves around allegations that these former union leaders orchestrated an attack that endangered lives and caused severe injuries to NUPENG officials. The court will continue to hear testimonies and examine evidence to determine the culpability of the defendants in the charges brought against them.