Alleged N19.4 Billion Fraud: Prosecution counsel’s absence stalls trial of ex-minister Sirika, three others
The trial of former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika and three others was on Monday stalled in the Abuja High Court due to the absence of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel.
The matter was fixed for the defence to cross-examine the third prosecution witness.
Joseph Kwahar held the brief of Mr Sirika’s counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN).
Also, counsel for the second defendant, Hafiz Matanmi, informed the court that they received a letter from the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), seeking to vacate today’s date.
They added that the prosecution, however, wanted the case to continue on Tuesday.
With no objection from the defence team, Justice Suleiman Belgore then adjourned the matter until Tuesday for cross-examination of Isaiah Yesufu, who is the director of compliance at the Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP).
Mr Sirius is charged alongside his younger brother, Ahmad Abubakar and two companies, Al-Buraq Limited and Enginos Nigeria Limited, on 10 counts bordering on abuse of office, criminal breach of trust, and use of position for gratification.
The anti-graft commission alleged that the former minister awarded various contracts to his younger brother to the tune of about N19.4 billion.
The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
(NAN)
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