Ex-HoS Oyo-Ita’s trial for October 20

By Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

The absence of the stenographer at a Federal Excessive Court docket in Abuja yesterday stalled the deliberate opening of trial within the case towards the quick previous Head of Service of the Federation (HOSF), Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita and 9 others.

The Financial and Monetary Crimes Fee (EFCC) filed an 18-count cost bordering on fraud towards the accused.

Oyo-Ita is charged along with her Particular Assistant, Ubong Effiok; Frontline Ace International Companies Restricted; Asanaya Initiatives Restricted; Garba Umar, his firms, Slopes Worldwide Restricted and Gooddeal Investments Restricted; U & U International Companies Restricted (allegedly belonging to Effiok) and Prince Mega Logistics Restricted.

On the point out of the case, prosecuting lawyer Mohammed Abubakar stated the enterprise of the day was for the prosecution to open its case.

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Abubakar stated he had two witnesses in court docket and was able to proceed, topic to the court docket’s comfort.

Though legal professionals to the defendants stated they have been equally prepared, Justice Taiwo Taiwo stated the court docket couldn’t proceed with the case as a result of the stenographer was not out there.

The decide stated he was not comfy recording proceedings along with his hand and would favor the stenographer was readily available.

He averred that because the case didn’t fall within the classes of these to be given particular consideration in the course of the COVID-19 disaster, he would adjourn it until a later date.

On the settlement of legal professionals to all of the events, Justice Taiwo adjourned until October 20. Oyo-Ita is accused of participating in fraud in relation to Responsibility Tour Allowance, estacodes, convention charges and receiving kickbacks on contracts.