Mompha: Court closes defence’s case in alleged N6bn money laundering

In a significant development at the Ikeja Special Offences Court, the defense's case against social media personality Ismaila Mustapha, widely known as Mompha, in a multi-billion naira money laundering trial has been formally closed. Justice Mojisola Dada's decision came after Mompha's legal counsel, Mr. Kolawole Salami, was unable to present the expected witnesses, leading the court to conclude that further delays would not be tolerated.

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A witness testified for the prosecution, and you want to bring him as your defence witness. Do not bring confusion here.

The proceedings saw the judge express frustration with what she termed "tactic[s] to waste the time of the court." The court's ruling to set aside a witness summons, deeming it "issued in error," underscored the judge's stance against any attempts to prolong the trial, especially given the case's 2021 origins. The defense's inability to produce witnesses, despite ample opportunity, led to the closure of their case, with the judge emphasizing that no new evidence was anticipated beyond what had already been addressed during cross-examination.

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If you do not have a witness to call, close your defence. This is a tactic to waste the time of the court.

Mompha, who is facing trial alongside his company, Ismalob Global Investment Ltd., on eight counts including conspiracy to launder funds and non-disclosure of assets, is being tried in absentia. The court has now directed both the prosecution and defense to file their final written addresses, with the next hearing scheduled for June 30. This closure marks a critical juncture in the trial, moving it closer to a potential verdict after prolonged legal proceedings.

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There is nothing new the witness is coming to say that has not already been addressed under cross-examination.