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The Federal High Court in Abuja has given former Senator Andy Uba a final opportunity to appear for his arraignment over an alleged ₦400 million fraud, setting October 28, 2025, as the deadline.
Justice Mohammed Umar issued the ultimatum on Wednesday after expressing frustration with the repeated medical excuses put forward by Uba’s counsel, Barrister C. F. Odiniru.
The judge warned that the court would take all necessary measures to compel Uba’s attendance if he fails to appear on the next date.
The Inspector-General of Police amended the charge to allege that Uba, Benjamin Etu, and a third suspect who remains at large conspired in 2022 to obtain money by false pretence.
Prosecutors claim the defendants approached businessman George Uboh, claiming they could secure the appointment of a Managing Director for the Niger Delta Development Commission in exchange for ₦400 million.
Prosecution counsel A. M. Abdullahi told the court that Uba has not appeared since the case was filed, describing the persistent medical excuses as an attempt to delay justice.
He sought a bench warrant under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, but the judge opted instead to give one last adjournment.
Odiniru countered that his client is receiving treatment in the United States and has provided documents to show scheduled hospital visits until October 31.
Justice Umar, however, dismissed the argument, questioning whether the court should wait “for 10 years” and stressing that the trial must begin this year.
The case, backed by the Attorney-General of the Federation, will resume on October 28 for Uba to take his plea.
