The arraignment of the
former Bayelsa State
governor, Timipre Marlin Sylva and six others before a Federal High Court
sitting in Abuja
did not go on today as earlier announced.
Sylva was to be re-arraigned following fresh evidence linking him
with a bouquet of fraudulent transactions that borders on money laundering
during his tenure as governor of Bayelsa
State between 2009 and 2012.
The
other accused persons are Francis Okuburo, Gbenga S. Balogun, Samuel Ogbuku,
Marlin Maritime Limited, Eat Catering Services Limited and Haloween Blue
Construction and Logistics Limited.
Though, the ex-governor
was present in court, his counsel, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN objected to his client
taking a plea on the grounds that they were not served with hearing notice. He
contended that the provision of the law which allows for 7 days before
arraignment should be complied with.
Counsel to EFCC, Rotimi
Jacobs however urged his Lordship, Justice A.R Mohammed to proceed with the
arraignment since the accused persons were already in court. Besides, he added
that the defence already have a proof of evidence and the amended charge. Bur
Fagbemi insisted on the defence’s right to a hearing notice.
At this juncture, counsel
to the 4th accused person, Ajayi Olowo informed the court that he
had filed a notice of preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the
court to entertain the matter and asked for a short adjournment for the motion
to be argued. Counsel to other defendants aligned themselves with his
submission.
Jacobs however urged the
court to take their arguments on the motion orally to save the time of the
court and ensure speedy trial. He noted with concern, the antics of the former
governor which he claimed are aimed at frustrating his trial and urged the
court to do something in the interest of justice.
Consequently, Justice
Mohammed adjourned case to January 23, 2014 .
Sylva and the other
accused persons are to be prosecuted on a 42-count amended charge.
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