An Ikeja Special Offences Court has brought to a close the defence stage in the ongoing money laundering trial involving social media personality Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha.
The case, which involves alleged laundering of over N6 billion, is being heard before Justice Mojisola Dada.
The court ruled to close the defence case after the defendant’s legal team failed to present any witnesses.
Justice Dada stated that the defence had been given sufficient opportunity but did not utilise it effectively
The judge also dismissed a witness summons filed by defence counsel, describing it as inappropriate and unnecessary.
According to the court, the attempt to call a prosecution witness as a defence witness was unjustified and could delay proceedings.
Mompha is being prosecuted alongside his firm, Ismalob Global Investment Ltd, on multiple charges.
The allegations include conspiracy, retention of proceeds of unlawful activities, and failure to disclose assets.
The defendant, who was arraigned in January 2022, is currently being tried in absentia.
The case has remained ongoing for several years due to procedural delays and legal arguments.
Following the closure of the defence, the court directed both parties to submit their final written arguments.
The matter has been adjourned until June 30 for adoption of final addresses.
Counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission opposed any further adjournments.
The prosecution argued that the defence had already been granted adequate time and described recent applications as delay tactics.
The court also granted the defence permission to appeal an earlier ruling that dismissed its no-case submission.
The defence had argued that the prosecution failed to establish sufficient evidence to proceed with the trial.
