Alleged N1.35bn fraud: Retrial of Sule Lamido, sons, others stalled

The retrial of former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, alongside his two sons and other co-defendants over an alleged N1.35 billion fraud was on Friday stalled at the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.

The case, which has been ongoing for several years, could not proceed as scheduled following the absence of key parties and procedural issues that arose in court. The development forced the presiding judge to adjourn proceedings to a later date, prolonging the legal battle involving the former governor.

Lamido, who governed Jigawa State between 2007 and 2015, is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations bordering on money laundering, abuse of office, and diversion of public funds. The anti-graft agency had accused him and his co-defendants of receiving and laundering funds amounting to about N1.35 billion during his tenure in office.

Also standing trial with him are his sons, who were alleged to have benefitted from the disputed funds through various financial transactions traced to companies linked to the family. The defendants, however, have consistently denied all allegations, maintaining their innocence and insisting that the charges are politically motivated.

At Friday’s proceedings, lawyers representing the parties informed the court of certain developments affecting the readiness of the case. Following submissions by counsel, the court ruled that the matter be adjourned to enable all parties adequately prepare and ensure the smooth continuation of the retrial.

The stalled hearing adds another delay to the high-profile case, which has witnessed multiple adjournments since it was first instituted. Observers say the prolonged trial reflects the complex nature of corruption-related prosecutions involving former public officials.

The court is expected to fix a new date for the continuation of hearing, when witnesses may be called and further evidence presented.

Meanwhile, legal analysts note that the outcome of the case could have broader implications for anti-corruption efforts and political accountability in the country.