A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has declined a request by the Kogi State Chief of Staff, Abdulkareem Asuku, to transfer his ongoing trial for alleged N10 billion fraud to Lokoja, the state capital. Justice Inyang Ekwo, presiding over the case, ruled against the transfer on Friday, February 23, 2024, citing the need for witness protection and the convenience of the majority of witnesses.
Asuku, alongside others, is facing charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) bordering on criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, and misappropriation of public funds to the tune of N10 billion. The alleged offenses occurred while he served as the Director-General of the Kogi State Bureau of Liaison Services between 2016 and 2019.
Defense Pushes for Transfer:
Asuku’s legal team had filed a motion seeking the transfer of the trial to Lokoja, arguing that most of the witnesses reside in the state capital and that transportation and accommodation costs would be significantly lower for the defense team. They also expressed concerns about security risks for the defendant and his lawyers in Abuja.
Prosecution Objects, Court Sides with EFCC:
The EFCC, represented by prosecution counsel Ekene Iheanacho, vehemently opposed the transfer request. Iheanacho argued that most of the key witnesses, including bankers and government officials, are based in Abuja, making it impractical and inconvenient to relocate the trial. He also raised concerns about witness tampering if the trial were moved to Lokoja.
Justice Ekwo, after careful consideration of both arguments, sided with the prosecution. He acknowledged the challenges of witness transportation and accommodation but deemed them insufficient to outweigh the need for witness protection and the convenience of the majority of witnesses. He also expressed concerns that transferring the trial to Lokoja might pose security risks for the prosecution team.
Reactions and Next Steps:
The court’s decision has drawn mixed reactions. While Asuku’s legal team expressed disappointment, the EFCC commended the ruling, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent trial.
The trial is expected to resume in Abuja on a date yet to be announced. Both the prosecution and defense are expected to present their witnesses and arguments in the coming weeks.
