Absence Of Former Taraba Governor Ishaku Stalls Trial In Abuja Court
The trial of former Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku, was stalled on Monday due to his absence in an Abuja High Court.
Ishaku is facing a 15-count charge alongside a former Permanent Secretary of the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Bello Yero. The charges, brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), include criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and the alleged conversion of public funds amounting to ₦27 billion.
Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, while Yero was present in court, Ishaku was absent, leading to a delay in proceedings.
EFCC Questions Absence
During the hearing, EFCC counsel Oluwaleke Atolegbe informed the court that the matter was scheduled for continuation, but Ishaku had not appeared.
He acknowledged that the defence had served the prosecution with a letter explaining the former governor’s absence, but noted that the court’s permission for Ishaku to travel for medical reasons did not extend indefinitely.
“The order of the court was clear that he should be present today,” Atolegbe said. “The letter from his counsel does not indicate when he will be available.”
Defence Explains Delay
In response, Ishaku’s counsel, Chris Umaru (SAN), clarified that the court had granted his client permission to travel for medical treatment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 29 January. However, delays in processing his visa meant that he only obtained it on 24 February.
Umaru emphasised that Ishaku had never missed a court appearance before and requested an adjournment to June. However, the court rejected the request.
New Court Date Set
Presiding judge, Justice Sylvanius Oriji, adjourned the case until 28 April for further proceedings.
The EFCC is expected to continue presenting its case against the former governor and his co-defendant at the next hearing.
