The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will, on Feb. 22, arraign former Minister of Aviation, Sen. Stella Oduah, in the Federal High Court, Abuja, for alleged financial impropriety.
Justice Inyang Ekwo fixed the date on Tuesday, February 9, because the former minister was yet to be served with the court processes.
It was noted that Oduah, who currently represents Anambra North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, is facing the fraud charge alongside eight others in a suit with number: FHC/ABJ/CR/316/20.
Although the arraignment was scheduled for the day’s sitting, the case could not proceed because the lawmaker was not in court.
Counsel to the EFCC, Dr Hassan Liman, SAN, told the court that the ex-minister had not been served with the court processes.
The lawyer, therefore, prayed for an adjournment to enable the anti-graft agency to serve the legislator.
“My lord, the matter has been set out today for arraignment but I have been informed by the commission that the first defendant (Oduah) is yet to be served.
“In view of that my lord, may I humbly apply for a very short date,” he said.
Justice Ekwo held that it was the duty of the prosecution to produce defendants in court.
The judge then adjourned the matter until Feb. 22 for defendants to take their plea.
The anti-corruption agency is alleging that Oduah misappropriated public funds while serving as a minister.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Monday, February 8, inaugurated a committee for the review of its current strategic plan as well projections for future elections including the 2023 general poll.
INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu inaugurated the Committee in Abuja.
He said that INEC believed that it could not approach election management on an ad hoc basis; without deliberate plans.
“This plan will form the basis set for the full formulation of the election project plan for the 2023 general election.
“It will also help the commission to identify all events; programmes; as well as actions that needed to be implemented before the 2023 general election.
“It will also help us to track the offseason, governorship election taking place between 2021 and 2023; to ensure that these elections are also properly implemented.
“As you are aware, there are three such elections. The first one for which we have already issued; released the timetable and schedule of activities are the Anambra governorship election taking place in November,” Yakubu said.
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