The murder trial of Safina Mohammed Adizatu, who is accused of killing her Canadian-based boyfriend, Frank Kofi Osei, has been adjourned to July 27, 2026, after one of the jurors failed to appear in court.

The Accra High Court postponed proceedings to allow for the replacement of the absent juror. Following consultations between the prosecution and the defence, a new juror was selected, completing the seven-member jury, which was subsequently sworn in.

Before adjourning the case, the trial judge cautioned the jurors against discussing the matter with anyone or following media reports and social media commentary about the trial.

The jurors were also directed to keep all proceedings confidential throughout the hearing.

The court warned that any juror who fails to attend future sittings without a valid reason could face sanctions.

When the case resumes on July 27, both the prosecution and defence are expected to deliver their opening statements before the court moves to a case management conference. The prosecution is also expected to call its first witness.

Safina, a student, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of murder in connection with the death of Frank Kofi Osei at Ashaley Botwe School Junction in July 2022. She is currently on bail.

According to the prosecution, Osei travelled from Canada and spent the night of July 24, 2022, at Safina’s residence.

The prosecution alleges that Safina, together with others, attacked Osei, leading to his death through stabbing and strangulation.

It further claims that the suspects cleaned the crime scene, left the body in the room for about a day, and later moved it to the entrance of the house near the deceased’s vehicle in an attempt to conceal the incident.

Prosecutors say Safina later contacted the police and reported that her boyfriend had died in her room.

However, upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered Osei’s body outside the house and subsequently took Safina into custody to assist with investigations.