The statement given by former Governor of Taraba State, Rev. Jolly Nyame, was not obtained under duress, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said on Thursday.
The EFCC stated this at the resumed trial of Nyame on alleged stealing of N1.64 billion before an FCT High Court presided by Adebukola Banjoko.
According to a statement issued by the EFCC spokesman Wilson Uwujaren, an operative of the commission, Ishaq Salihu, disclosed this before the court.
Mr. Uwujaren said Mr. Salihu, a prosecution witness, who was led in evidence by EFCC lawyer, Adebisi Adeniyi from Rotimi Jacob (SAN) chambers, told the court that the ex-governor’s statement was made voluntarily.
“Salihu was one of the investigators that took the statement of the accused sometime in July 2007.
“According to him, EFCC, as a law enforcement agency, has great respect for professionalism and would not do anything to either undermine people’s rights or the rule of law”, the statement said.
The statement stressed that the witness maintained that Mr. Nyame’s statement was voluntary when he was being cross-examined by the defence counsel, Sikiru Adewoye.
It further said that the EFCC had closed its case in the trial and the court adjourned till November 18 for Mr. Nyame’s lawyers to open their defense.
Mr. Nyame, according to the statement, is facing a 41-count charge bordering on criminal misappropriation of state funds. (NAN)
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate