The trial of the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation
(SGF), Babachir Lawal, before Justice Jude Okeke of the Federal Capital
Territory (FCT) High Court, Maitama has been adjourned to June 10, 2020
for continuation of trial.
The trial was to continue today, May 14, 2020 but could not due to the
absence of the prosecution witness who could not travel to Abuja due to
the ban on inter-state travels as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic.
“We have a challenge, securing the attendance of the witness who is
outside the court’s jurisdiction,” prosecution counsel, Offem Uket told
the court, adding that he only got a two day’s notice on today’s case.
Uket, however, apologised to the court for stalling proceedings and
asked for an adjournment to enable him provide the witness in court.
Defence counsel, Chief Akin Olujimi SAN did not object to the
prosecution’s application for adjournment.
Justice Jude Okeke granted the application and adjourned the matter till
June 10 and 15, 2020 for further hearing on the matter.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC is prosecuting Lawal
along with his younger brother, Hamidu David Lawal.
Others are: Suleiman Abubakar, Apeh John Monday and two companies,
Rholavision Engineering Ltd and Josmon Technologies Ltd on a 10-count
amended charge, bordering on fraud, diversion of funds and criminal
conspiracy to the tune of N1.1 billion.