Court adjourns Lamido, sons’ N1.35bn fraud trial over counsel’s absence

The trial of former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido and his two sons, Aminu and Mustapha Lamido, on charges of alleged N1.35 billion fraud was adjourned at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday. The proceedings were halted due to the absence of the lead defense counsel, Joe Agi (SAN), who cited medical issues involving surgery.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting the Lamidos on a 37-count charge that includes alleged money laundering, kickbacks, and fictitious contract awards. The offenses are said to have occurred between 2007 and 2015 when Sule Lamido served as governor.

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While wishing the defence counsel well, Okoroma submitted that Agi ought to have delegated another counsel in his team to appear for him so that the trial can continue, especially as the matter has lingered in court since 2015.

During the court session, prosecution counsel Chile Okoroma (SAN) informed Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu about the defense counsel's absence and his request for an adjournment. While wishing Agi a speedy recovery, Okoroma argued that another member of the defense team should have been present to ensure the trial proceeded, especially since the case has been ongoing since 2015.

The EFCC also highlighted that Justice Ojukwu had traveled from her judicial division in Calabar, Cross River State, to preside over the matter in Abuja. Consequently, the prosecution requested a one-day adjournment. Justice Ojukwu granted the request, adjourning the case for the continuation of the trial. The next hearing is expected on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

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Besides, the EFCC counsel pointed to the fact that the presiding judge flew in from her Calabar, Cross River State jurisdiction to preside over the matter at the Federal High Court, Abuja. He consequently prayed the court for just one day’s adjournment.