Former governor, Orji Uzor Kalu praying for witnesses to die – EFCC
– The EFCC’s counsel, Rotimi Jacobs said Orji Uzor Kalu, a former governor of Abia state, was hoping for the witnesses in his trial to die
– He accused the ex-governor of stalling his trial
– In defence, Kalu’s counsel argued that the delay was due to a pending judgement at the Supreme Court
The EFCC has accused the former governor of Abia state, Orji Uzor Kalu, of hoping that the witness in the criminal trial against him will die.
Speaking in court on Thursday, June 30, the EFCC’s counsel, Rotimi Jacobs in a side comment said the defence was using every means possible to stall his trial.
Orji Uzor Kalu is accused of diverting state funds totaling N5.6 billion during his tenure as the governor of Abia state.
The judge over the matter, Anuli Chikere had asked parties involved to choose a convenient date for taking of fresh plea when the prosecution made the allegation.
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Jacobs said: “I know you want December, when all the witnesses must have died.”
But in his reply, the counsel to the former governor, Chris Uche laughed at Jacobs allegation.
Uche further said it would be convenient for his team if a date is taken after the vacation.
Rotimi had at the resumed session prayed the court to go on with the trial.
He said it was expected that the matter today proceeded with plea taking by the accused persons.
“I want your lordship to give us the opportunity for this trial to go on,” let the plea be taken.
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But in his argument, Uche said the matter for today was adjourned for fore-mentioning after an amendment of charges by the EFCC.
Jacobs said the matter which wad first called in 2007 is long overdue.
But the defence argued that the delay was due to a pending judgement at the Supreme Court.
But the judge stated that: “On the next adjourned date whether the Supreme Court delivers its judgement or not we will proceed.”
“Have it in mind that on the next adjourned date there won’t be any arguments, it will be for fresh plea,” Chikere said.
Chikere further adjourned the matter to September 27, for taking of fresh plea by the former governor.
READ ALSO: Former governor, Orji Kalu tryingto stall trial – EFCC
Uzor-Kalu is facing trial money laundering and diversion of public fund during his tenure as the governor of Abia state.
He was formerly facing a 112-count charges which was amended to 107-count charges.
After a long time, the over 100 charges against the governor was further amended to 37-count charges by the EFCC.
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