A High Court in the Federal Capital Territory, on Friday stopped the arraignment of the former Inspector-General of Police, Sunday Ehindero, charged with the embezzlement of N557 million police equipment fund.
Counsel to Ehindero, Chief Mike Ezekome (SAN), had filed a preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear the case.
Ezekome further challenged the competency of the prosecutor (Paul Bassi), as according to him, he did not obtain the permission of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) before the commencement of the action.
Justice Mudashiru Oniyangi, held: ``I consider it proper to hear the application challenging the jurisdiction of the court first before the accused persons could take their plea.''
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that John Obaniyi, a former Commissioner of Police in-charge of Budget at the Force Headquarters, is standing trial along with the former IGP.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), in its amended charge, accused Ehindero and Obaniyi of conspiracy to embezzle the funds donated to the Force by Bayelsa State Government in 2007.
The commission said the funds were meant for the purchase of arms, ammunition and riot control equipment.
No comments:
Post a Comment