By LEVI JOHNSON
Lagos, Nigeria – [17 April,2025] – In a gripping testimony that recaptured the attention of the nation, Chidinma Ojukwu, the prime suspect in the murder of Super TV CEO Michael Usifo Ataga, took the stand at a Lagos High Court on Thursday. The day marked a pivotal moment in a case that has captivated the public since the tragic events unfolded on June 15, 2021.
The Shocking Discovery
Ojukwu, an undergraduate at the University of Lagos, recounted the harrowing moment she discovered Ataga’s lifeless body in a short-let apartment located in the upscale Lekki area of Lagos. Her narrative was filled with emotion as she described returning home after buying food and drinks, only to find the door unresponsive to her knocks. Driven by a growing sense of unease, she managed to push the door open, revealing a scene that would haunt her forever.
“I dropped everything and rushed to him,” Ojukwu recalled, her voice trembling as she described the blood on the floor and the sight of Ataga lying in a pool of blood. “His eyes were half-shut, and he had no pulse.”
A Complicated Relationship
During her testimony, led by her lawyer, Mr. Onwuka Egwu, Chidinma elaborated on her relationship with Ataga, which reportedly began in November 2020. Their connection blossomed through a mutual friend, Fiyin, who was involved with one of Ataga’s friends, James.
Chidinma portrayed Ataga as a man of considerable kindness and generosity, claiming he not only paid her school fees but also provided financial support for her budding cosmetics business. “He was supportive in many ways,” she stated. “He believed in my dreams and encouraged me to pursue my education.”
In her recounting, she disclosed personal details, revealing that Ataga was originally from Edo State, resided in the affluent Victoria Garden City, and was a prominent figure in the media industry. The testimony also touched on a complex family life, as Ataga was said to have three children with his estranged wife, who lived in Abuja.
A Case Under Scrutiny
Chidinma’s defense aims to unravel the circumstances surrounding Ataga’s death and the relationship dynamics that may have contributed to the incident. The court proceedings have unveiled a plethora of emotions, including grief, support, betrayal, and the struggles of young individuals navigating complex relationships.
The case has gained widespread media attention and public interest, drawing discussions on issues ranging from interpersonal relationships to the societal implications of violence. As the trial unfolds, it is expected to delve deeper into the legal and moral questions surrounding the tragic outcome of what was once perceived to be a supportive relationship.
What Lies Ahead?
As the proceedings continue, Chidinma Ojukwu’s testimony serves as a focal point in the case, raising questions about the complexities of human interactions and the circumstances that eventually led to the untimely death of a prominent business figure. The courtroom audience, both present and following the trial through various media channels, remains on edge as the truth behind Michael Ataga’s death slowly comes to light.
The trial is set to resume soon, with further testimonies anticipated to shape the course of this high-profile case that resonates deeply within Nigerian society.
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