Justice John Tsoho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Tuesday November 12, 2019, adjourned till January 21-23, 2020 for continuation of hearing in the trial of the founder of Daar Communication Plc, Chief Raymond Dokpesi.
Dokpesi is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC for his alleged involvement in the diversion of N2.1 billion, meant for arms purchase by the former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki.
At the resumed sitting today, the absence of the lead defence counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN) who was said to be engaged in time-bound 2019 election appeals stalled the proceedings.
According to his representative, Barth Ogar Oluohu, “Agabi was unavoidably absent in court as he is engaged in three election related appeals which are time bound.” He therefore, requested for adjournment so that the defence team can continue with its defence, noting that the defendants have not exhausted their five adjournments, which they are entitled under Section 396 (4) of the ACJA.
Oluwaleke Atolagbe, who stood in for the lead prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, however, opposed the application for adjournment, observing that the defence team had other senior lawyers who were capable of carrying with on with the matter.
Aside adjourning the matter to January 21-23, 2020 for continuation of hearing, Justice Tsoho granted a pending application in the court, in which Dokpesi had sought the leave of the court to travel abroad for medical care.
Wilson Uwujaren
Head, Media and Publicity
12 November, 2019
