The Kwara State Government yesterday arraigned five suspects accused of murdering Hasfoh Lawal, a final-year student at the state's College of Education in Ilorin, before the Kwara State High Court.

The incident, which occurred on 10 February 2025, saw the prime suspect, AbdulRahman Bello, arrested at his residence in Ilorin's Offa Garage area, where the dismembered remains of his girlfriend, Hafsoh, were allegedly discovered.

Following his arrest, Bello was interrogated by officers at the Kwara State Police Command and initially charged at a magistrate's court. The state government later assumed control of the case to ensure thorough prosecution.

Bello and four co-defendants-Ahmed Abdulwasiu, Suleiman Muhydeen, Jamiu Uthman, and AbdulRahman Jamiu-appeared in court yesterday. The five face charges including conspiracy, removal of body parts, draining of blood, and possession of human remains. All defendants pleaded not guilty to the offences.

The prime suspect, AbdulRahman Bello is solely accused of raping the deceased, an offence punishable under section 283 of the Penal code CAP P4, Laws of Kwara State.

The state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Senior Ibrahim led the prosecution team in yesterday's proceeding.

All the other defendants but the prime suspect had legal representation at the proceeding. Abdulraman Bello was represented on a pro bono basis.

Trial judge, Justice Hannah Ajayi directed that the defendants be remanded at the Oke Kura prison and adjourned the case till May 7, for commencement of trial.