An Abuja High Court has adjourned the trial of former Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku, until June 2 for the continuation of proceedings in a case involving allegations of criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and conversion of public funds amounting to N27 billion.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), prosecuting on behalf of the Federal Government, arraigned Ishaku alongside Bello Yero, a former Permanent Secretary at the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Taraba.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the 15-count charge.
During Monday’s session, the defendants and their legal representatives were present in court.
Prosecution counsel James Shaba, appearing for lead counsel Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, informed the court that Jacobs was occupied at the Court of Appeal with another case.
Shaba requested a brief stand-down of the matter, saying it would allow Jacobs to arrive.
However, counsel for Ishaku, Eko Eko, SAN, objected to the request.
Eko informed the court that the former governor was not in the best of health and argued against making him wait for an extended period.
“My client is bereaved and needs to travel today. Instead of a stand down, the prosecution should ask for a clear date for an adjournment,” he submitted.
Adeola Adedipe, SAN, counsel for the second defendant, supported Eko’s position, emphasizing that setting a new date would be preferable to delaying proceedings.
Adedipe stated, “A clear day for adjournment is better than a stood down.”
After considering the submissions from both sides, Justice Slyvanius Oriji agreed to adjourn the matter and scheduled further hearings for June 2, June 11, and July 2.
