The high-profile trial of Nigerian punter Benjamin Best, popularly known as Killaboi, is scheduled to commence on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Best stands accused of the 2023 murder of social media influencer Augusta Onuwabhagbe.
The commencement of the trial follows a long-running international effort to bring the suspect to justice after he fled Nigeria in the wake of the crime.
Public Hearing and Mother’s Appeal
Augusta’s mother, Cordelia Okonye, broke the news of the trial date through a series of emotional posts on her Instagram stories. She invited members of the public and supporters of the family to witness the proceedings as they seek accountability for her daughter’s death.
- Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM
- Venue: High Court, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos Island
“His trial begins this Thursday… Come please and listen to the killer of my daughter,” Okonye wrote. “If you love us, kindly join us at the High Court… to listen to the killer.”
Background of the Crime
The case dates back to July 13, 2023, when 21-year-old Augusta Onuwabhagbe was reported dead at Benjamin Best’s residence in Ajah, Lagos. Augusta was a first-class student at Lead City University and a rising influencer at the time of her passing.
Following the incident, Best admitted to the stabbing in a series of social media posts, claiming it was an accident during a heated argument, before disappearing. His flight from the country led Nigerian authorities to declare him wanted.
Arrest and Extradition from Qatar
The search for Best ended in February 2025 when he was apprehended in Qatar. His capture was the result of a coordinated international operation involving:
- The Nigerian Police Force
- The Federal Ministry of Justice
- INTERPOL
- Qatari Security Authorities
Following his arrest, Best was successfully extradited to Nigeria in April 2025 to face formal charges.
Public and Legal Interest
The trial is expected to draw significant attendance from the public and human rights advocates. The case has become a symbol of the fight against gender-based violence and the power of international legal cooperation in tracking fugitives.
For the family of Augusta Onuwabhagbe, Thursday marks the formal beginning of a long-awaited journey toward closure and legal vindication.
Source: Africa Publicity
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