The Lagos High Court witnessed dramatic testimony as Chidinma Ojukwu, prime suspect in Michael Ataga’s murder, recounted discovering the Super TV CEO’s body.
Speaking before Justice Yetunde Adesanya, the former University of Lagos student described events leading to Ataga’s death in June 2021.
Defense counsel Onwuka Egwu guided Ojukwu through her testimony about finding Ataga in a Lekki apartment.
She recalled returning with food to silence before opening the door to a horrific scene.
Blood pooled around Ataga‘s motionless body with half-closed eyes showed no signs of life.
Ojukwu revealed their relationship began in November 2020 through mutual friends.
She portrayed Ataga as her benefactor, supporting her education and business ventures.
The media executive lived in Victoria Garden City while maintaining family ties in Abuja.
Two days before the incident, Ataga invited Ojukwu to celebrate his upcoming birthday.
Since his home was undergoing renovations, they opted for a short-let apartment she arranged.
After dining out, they returned to the Adewale Street residence where tragedy would strike.
According to Ojukwu, Ataga requested cannabis and rohypnol on June 14, sending money for these substances.
When she left again the next day for more purchases, she returned to find his lifeless body.
Bloodstains covered the scene where they had shared meals hours earlier.
Panicking, Ojukwu wiped blood from herself and changed clothes before gathering her belongings.
She admitted taking Ataga’s documents including bank statements before fleeing by taxi.
These actions would later become critical evidence in the ongoing trial.
The courtroom fell silent as Ojukwu described her shock upon discovering Ataga.
Her testimony provided the first detailed account from the suspect herself about that fateful day.
Prosecutors observed carefully while taking notes on these new revelations.
Justice Adesanya adjourned proceedings until April 28, 2025 for Ojukwu’s continued testimony.
The case has gripped Nigeria since Ataga’s death, with each development attracting intense media scrutiny. Forensic evidence and witness accounts will face renewed examination when hearings resume.
Legal experts anticipate further revelations about the apartment’s condition and Ojukwu’s movements.
Investigators previously found bloodstained items and the murder weapon at the scene.
The trial’s outcome hinges on reconciling physical evidence with testimonies.
Ataga’s family attended the proceedings, seeking justice for their loved one.
The successful businessman left behind three children and numerous media industry colleagues mourning his loss.
His tragic death exposed security concerns about short-let accommodations.
As the case continues, Nigerians await answers about what truly happened in that Lekki apartment.
The judicial process moves forward while the public debates competing narratives surrounding this high-profile crime.
Final resolution may take months as both sides present their complete evidence.
Ojukwu’s testimony marks a pivotal moment in the year-long investigation. Her account now faces cross-examination where prosecutors will challenge inconsistencies.
The court must determine whether her version aligns with forensic findings and digital evidence.
This case underscores Nigeria’s evolving justice system handling complex criminal matters.
From crime scene to courtroom, each step undergoes intense scrutiny.
The eventual verdict will resonate beyond this trial, potentially influencing future homicide investigations.
Meanwhile, Ataga’s legacy continues through his media empire while his family seeks closure.
The coming court dates promise more developments in this tragic story that has captivated the nation.
All parties await justice taking its course through proper judicial channels.
The adjournment allows both legal teams to prepare for the next phase.
Prosecutors will analyze Ojukwu’s statements while her defense strategizes responses to anticipated challenges.
This careful judicial process ensures thorough examination of all evidence before reaching any conclusion.
Public interest remains high as Nigerians follow each twist in this sensational case. Media outlets continue reporting developments while commentators analyze legal strategies.
The truth behind Ataga’s untimely death may finally emerge through these court proceedings.
Ultimately, the justice system must balance competing narratives to deliver a fair verdict.
As testimony continues, new details may shed light on what really happened during those fatal days in Lekki.
The court’s final decision will provide answers to many unanswered questions.
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