Chidinma Ojukwu, the primary suspect in the murder of Super TV CEO Michael Ataga, testified in her defence on Thursday, recounting how she discovered his lifeless body in a Lekki apartment on June 15, 2021. Ojukwu, a 300-level Mass Communication student at the University of Lagos, is facing charges alongside Chioma Egbuchu and Adedapo Quadri for Ataga’s murder. The trial is ongoing at the Lagos State High Court in Tafawa Balewa Square.
During her testimony, Ojukwu explained how she met Ataga in November 2020 through a mutual friend and described him as kind and supportive, helping her with her school fees and business. She shared that Ataga invited her to a Lekki short-let apartment for his birthday celebrations in June 2021, where they spent the days eating, drinking, and using narcotics.
On June 15, 2021, Ojukwu testified that after leaving to buy food, she returned to find Ataga dead in a pool of blood. In panic, she wiped the blood off herself, changed clothes, and took documents and valuables from the apartment before leaving in a cab. She said she later reported the situation to the authorities.
The prosecution’s case contrasts with Ojukwu’s version of events, presenting forensic evidence that links her to the crime scene, including bloodstains on her clothing. Other witnesses testified about the events leading up to Ataga’s death, including the apartment owner, security personnel, and the police investigator who discovered Ataga’s body.
The case has been adjourned until April 28, 2025, for the continuation of the trial.
AT Reporter
