Alleged $27bn Fraud: Court Overrules Ex-Gov Ishaku’s Objection, Admits Key Document

A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama has overruled former Taraba Governor Darius Ishaku's objection to the admissibility of key documents in his alleged N27 billion fraud trial.

Justice Slyvanus Oriji held that the statement of the prosecution's witness, Ismail Lawal, made at the EFCC office, was admissible in evidence.

The judge stated, "The objection is overruled, and the statement received in evidence."

The EFCC is prosecuting Ishaku and former permanent secretary Bello Yero for alleged criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and conversion of public funds.

The court adjourned the matter until July 2 for cross-examination of the witness and continuation of the trial.

The prosecution's witness, Lawal, testified that he disbursed money to different sources based on Ishaku's instructions, often in cash ranging from N20 million to N100 million.

He also claimed to have collected money from various individuals, including Taiwo Jones and John Olumba.

Ishaku's counsel, Paul Ogbole SAN, objected to the admissibility of the document, citing lack of legal presence and video recording during the statement's making.

However, the court ruled that the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) were not contravened. The trial continues on July 2. (NAN)