Forensic expert Dr. Richard Somari informed the court that the DNA extracted from blood found on Chidimma Ojukwu’s red dress matched that of the slain businessman, Usifo Ataga.
The trial of Chidinma Ojukwu, a University of Lagos Mass Communication student accused of murdering Super TV CEO Usifo Ataga, resumed on April 16, 2024, at the Lagos High Court in Tafawa Balewa Square on Lagos Island.
Ojukwu and Quadri are facing counts one to eight, including conspiracy, murder, and stabbing, while her sister, Egbuchu, is accused of stealing an iPhone 7 belonging to Ataga.
The witness, Dr. Somari, testified as the eleventh prosecution witness, revealing that the DNA found on Chidinma’s dress matched Ataga’s. He stated his extensive experience in forensics, having conducted over 500 forensic tests.
Dr. Somiari explained that his office received various items for analysis, including the stained red dress, an army green t-shirt, and a DNA sample from Chidinma Ojukwu. Other items included urine, blood, gastric content, and bile for toxicology reports. The aim was to establish evidence linking the suspect to the crime scene and the victim.
The DNA on the red dress matched Ataga’s, but not Chidinma’s or the other suspects initially charged with her.
Under cross-examination, Dr. Somari clarified that he was not involved in toxicology analysis and explained the procedure for forensic reports.
The defense counsels questioned the witness on DNA sampling from the second defendant, Quadri, and involvement in toxicology analysis, to which he responded negatively.
Justice Yetunde Adesanya adjourned the case until May 30 for further proceedings.