Justice Allagua declared that “The witnesses and evidences tendered to the court by the applicants are cogent, hence, this honourable court is hereby ordered the three defendants to open their defense.”Daily Trust reports.
The presiding judge, therefore set aside November 18th and 19th for the three defendants to enter defense. Speaking to newsmen shortly after the ruling, Counsel to the 2nd and 3rd defendants, who spoke on behalf of the three defendants, Barrister Abdul Adamu Fagge, declared that his clients would get prepared to open defense during the next sitting as directed by the court.
On the ruling, Barrister Fagge, said, “I could not comment on it until I consult my clients who will decide on whether to appeal the ruling or not.” Counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr J. A. Ojogba, expressed satisfaction on the ruling, saying the commission had presented four witnesses and several evidences against the three defendants.
Shekarau and Wali were accused of receiving a sum of N25million, while Engineer Ahmed N10million from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) without using any financial institution, an offence contrary to Section 18 and punishable under Section 16 (2b) of the Money Laundering Act. The money was part of the N950million sent to Kano state through Madam Diezani Allison Madueke on the eve of the 2015 general election.
