Judge’s Absence Delays Fayose’s Trial

Judge’s Absence Delays Fayose’s Trial

Former Ekiti Governor, Ayodele Fayose, facing allegations of N6.9 billion fraud and money laundering, saw his trial adjourned to July 1, 2024, due to the absence of Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, the presiding judge. Court officials cited Justice Aneke’s official assignment as the reason for the postponement……READ ALSO Same Woman Receiving Condolences Abandoned Her Kids For 15 Years – Fayose’s Ex-aide Roasts Mohbad’s Mother

The case, drawing significant public interest due to its high-profile nature, involves charges against Fayose and a company, Spotless Investment Ltd. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has levelled 11 counts of fraud and money laundering against them, stemming from alleged financial improprieties amounting to N6.9 billion.

Initially arraigned before Justice Mojisola Olatoregun on October 22, 2018, the case was reassigned to Justice Aneke following an EFCC petition. Fayose has maintained his innocence throughout, pleading not guilty to all charges and remaining on bail set at N50 million with sureties.

Since being re-arraigned before Justice Aneke on July 2, 2019, the EFCC has actively pursued the case, presenting witnesses to bolster their claims. The charges revolve around allegations of unlawfully acquiring funds for Fayose’s gubernatorial campaign in Ekiti State, including a $5 million cash payment from then Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro.

The allegations also extend to acquisitions made by Fayose, including properties in Lagos and Abuja, purportedly funded through illicit funds. The EFCC accuses him of contravening various sections of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act of 2011.

With the trial set to resume in July, the legal proceedings continue to highlight efforts to combat corruption and enforce accountability among Nigeria’s political class.

Join our channel for more latest news https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaV4jB6DuMRgwqnJCF32