In a surprising turn of events, the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of Ali Bello and his co-defendant, Dauda Suleiman, with the intention to resume the next day for the continuation of the testimony of the 7th prosecution witness (PW-7).
Justice James Omotosho made the decision after Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, the lawyer representing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), led Aminu Rabiu, the PW-7, in presenting evidence in the ongoing trial pertaining to the alleged money laundering charges against the defendants.
The EFCC had filed a lawsuit against Bello and Suleiman, naming them as the 1st and 2nd defendants in the case.
Upon resumption of the hearing, Oyedepo informed the court that the day’s proceedings were scheduled for the continuation of the trial and expressed readiness to proceed.
Abubakar Aliyu, SAN, representing Ali Bello, and Olusegun Jolaawo, SAN, the lawyer for Suleiman, both confirmed their preparedness to proceed with the case.
Rabiu, who identified himself as a businessman associated with Falala Construction Company Limited, revealed to the court that his line of work primarily involves interior decoration and furniture.
Furthermore, he stated that he is acquainted with Alhaji Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi, as well as the two defendants currently facing prosecution by the anti-graft agency.
The witness, who disclosed that Falala Construction Ltd maintains an account with Zenith Bank, shared, “I was involved in a project for the state government. I was responsible for the demolition and reconstruction of the Presidential Lodge in the Kogi State Government’s House.”
Rabiu also mentioned that he has previously handled personal projects for the former Governor.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the proceedings until the following day to allow for the continuation of PW-7’s testimony, shedding further light on the case at hand.
