He also expressed concern over rising cases of poly-drug use, where individuals combine multiple substances such as cannabis, alcohol and pharmaceutical products.
The Federal High Court, Abuja Division, on Tuesday discharged and acquitted Winifred Oyo-Ita of money laundering offences, six years after the trial began.
The judge adjourned until June 2 for continuation of hearing.
The defendants are being prosecuted by the anti-graft agency for allegedly laundering Kogi State’s funds to the tune of N10 billion.
The judge adjourned the matter until January 19, 2026, for commencement of trial.
“We have seen instances where the defendant beat his counsel to keep quiet while he is talking,” said the judge.
The prosecutor said that the defendant supplied 550 copies and refused to supply the remaining 450 copies valued at N1.7 million.
The police charged the defendant with misappropriation, criminal breach of trust and cheating.
Ms Okpala said that if granted, the defendant would not jump bail nor jeopardise investigations
The EFCC lawyer opposed the defendants’ bail application.
