The Abuja High Court on Monday adjourned until June 2 to continue the trial of a former governor of Taraba, Darius Ishaku.

Mr Ishaku was charged with 15 counts of criminal breach of trust, conspiracy and conversion of public funds to the tune of N27 billion.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on behalf of the federal government, arraigned Mr Ishaku alongside Bello Yero, a former permanent secretary of the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in the state.

They, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

At the resumed sitting on the matter, the defendants and their counsel were in the court.

However, James Shaba, who announced an appearance for the prosecution, told the court that his principal, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), was at the Court of Appeal for another matter.

He prayed that the matter should be stood down for an hour to enable his principal to get to the court.

However, the counsel for Mr Ishaku, Eko Eko (SAN), objected to it.

Mr Eko informed the court that the former governor’s health was still fragile and that subjecting him to a long wait was wrong.

”My client is bereaved and needs to travel today,” Mr Eko said. ”Instead of a stand down, the prosecution should ask for a clear date for an adjournment.”

Adeola Adedipe (SAN) aligned with Mr Eko, saying a clear day for adjournment is better than a stand down.

After listening to their submissions, Justice Slyvanius Oriji adjourned the case until June 2, June 11, and July 2 for continuation. 

(NAN)