Court Remands Popular Philanthropist Emmanuel Musa Over PDP Youth Leader’s Murder

DDM News

The Yola Chief Magistrate Court III has remanded a well-known Adamawa philanthropist, Emmanuel Musa, and three others over alleged involvement in the murder of a local politician.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) confirms that Musa, alongside Godwin Chukukuyada, Danlami Nuhu, and Ibrahim Bakari, will remain in custody at the Yola Correctional Centre until July 7, 2025, pending further court proceedings.

The slain politician, Thomas Godwin, popularly called Zamfara, served as the youth leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Hong Local Government Area.

He was reportedly ambushed on April 15, 2025, while riding from Fadama Rake to his village, Kala’a, near Hong, along the Hong-Gombi highway.

According to the updated First Information Report (FIR), Zamfara was brutally beaten and left unconscious by his attackers before being pronounced dead at the hospital.

The FIR further alleges that Dr. Emmanuel Musa “instigated and sponsored” the deadly attack, a charge Musa’s defence lawyer, Gabriel Adikwu, strongly denies.

Adikwu contended that both he and his client had not been properly served and called for a fair process.

The prosecution, led by Ezekiel Gidauna of the Adamawa State Ministry of Justice, told the court that an adjournment was necessary for the Director of Public Prosecutions to advise on whether the Magistrate Court retains jurisdiction or the case should be transferred to a higher court.

Musa and the three co-defendants are currently facing charges of criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide.

Chief Magistrate Uwani Mohammad upheld the remand request, ensuring the suspects will remain incarcerated through the weekend.

The development has shocked many in Adamawa, where Emmanuel Musa is widely recognized for his generous philanthropic works, particularly his support for displaced persons and vulnerable groups.

Before his arrest, Musa had announced his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Adamawa State, branding himself as a youthful alternative with grassroots appeal.

His rise in popularity was largely tied to his reputation for providing relief materials, supporting widows, and offering scholarships to underprivileged students.

Political observers now wonder how the criminal charges will affect his political aspirations and the image he has cultivated over the years.

Meanwhile, the PDP in Adamawa is mourning the loss of one of its vibrant youth leaders, calling for swift and impartial justice in the case.

Zamfara’s death has triggered widespread outrage across Hong and surrounding communities, with several civil society groups demanding transparency in the investigation and prosecution.

Security has been tightened around the court premises amid heightened public interest in the case.

Emmanuel Musa’s supporters have remained largely silent since the court proceedings began, although a few loyalists claim the charges are politically motivated.

The case is expected to continue generating public and media attention ahead of the July 7 court sitting, as citizens await updates on whether the matter will proceed under the Magistrate Court or be elevated to the High Court.

DDM will continue monitoring the situation and provide timely updates as events unfold.

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