Obiano’s N4Billion Trial Adjourned Indefinitely

The High Court in Abuja has indefinitely adjourned the N4 billion money laundering case against former Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano.

Justice Mohammed Umar granted the adjournment on Tuesday following a request from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), led by S.O. Obila, who cited instructions from lead prosecutor Sylvanus Tahir (SAN).

Obila explained that nine witnesses had already testified before the previous judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo, who is currently serving a one-year suspension imposed by the National Judicial Council for misconduct. The EFCC requested that the trial resume only after Justice Ekwo’s reinstatement.

Willie Obiano’s N4Billion Trial Adjourned Indefinitely. Credit: Stock Photo.

The defence team, led by Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), raised no objection. After hearing submissions, Justice Umar adjourned the case sine die, meaning the matter will remain on hold indefinitely.

Obiano was arraigned on 24 January 2024, accused of laundering N4 billion in security votes during his tenure as governor. He was placed on an EFCC watchlist shortly after leaving office in 2022 and was arrested at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

The trial has faced multiple delays, including jurisdictional challenges by Obiano. Recent false reports claimed he had died in London, but he is currently alive and residing in the United States.

The indefinite adjournment ensures the case will not proceed until Justice Ekwo is available to continue.

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Toyibat Ajose

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