A prosecution witness, Oladimeji Dada, has testified before a Lagos State High Court in Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), revealing how his gateman, Usman Amidu, allegedly broke into his house and stole property, including Samsung phones, an iPad, a Nokia phone, a tablet, and over N1.2 million in cash.
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Dada gave the account while being led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, M.F. Salau, during the ongoing trial of Amidu in a criminal suit, LD/2219C/2023, brought by the Lagos State government. Amidu faces charges of conspiracy to commit felony and housebreaking.
   
Dada, a banker who resides in an estate in Ajah, recounted that on January 1, 2023, after attending a crossover church service with his family, they returned home around 12:30 a.m. and found Amidu seated outside their gate. Amidu assisted Dada in opening the gate, as the usual gatekeeper, Umaru, was absent. When asked about Umaru’s whereabouts, Amidu explained that he had gone to buy food at around 11:00 p.m. and had not returned.
   
Upon entering his house, Dada discovered that it had been burgled and immediately confronted Amidu, accusing Umaru of stealing the property. Amidu suggested they search for Umaru, claiming to have a friend in the estate. The search continued until 5:00 a.m. but was unsuccessful.
   
Later, Dada and others discovered one of the stolen phones at Amidu’s house. When they knocked on the door, they were told the owners lived abroad. Dada then reported the matter to the police. In a subsequent search of Umaru’s friend’s house, police discovered two guns. Umaru was arrested on January 19, 2023.
   
Dada further testified that when he confronted Umaru about the theft, Umaru claimed that Amidu had called him after Dada and his family left for church, asking about the house key. Amidu allegedly entered the house and gave Umaru a bundle of N500 notes to go back to Maiduguri. However, Umaru used the money to travel to Apapa, where he sold sweets before being found and arrested.

Amidu later confessed to Dada, apologising for stealing and explaining that he was under pressure. He also admitted to giving the stolen phones to his girlfriend.
   
Amidu had worked as a gatekeeper in the estate for over 21 years, earning the trust of the residents. However, one neighbour revealed that Amidu had mentioned being a surety for someone who had taken out a loan and was being harassed for non-payment.
   
During cross-examination, defence counsel, Mr. B.A. Sunmola, questioned Dada about whether Amidu had faced similar allegations in the past. Dada confirmed that no such allegations had been made. The case was adjourned to February 19 for further trial.
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