The Federal High Court in Abuja has directed that proceedings in the case involving suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari and his co-defendants should continue on a day-to-day basis as the defence phase resumes.
Justice Emeka Nwite issued the directive on Tuesday during proceedings in the case, which had earlier been suspended after the judge was shortlisted for elevation to the Court of Appeal.
The court had previously adjourned the matter indefinitely following the recommendation of Justice Nwite, alongside other High Court judges, for appointment as appellate court justices by the National Judicial Council (NJC).
Trial Resumes After Temporary Delay
When the matter was called, counsel for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Sunday Joseph, informed the court that parties had agreed that proceedings should continue while awaiting further developments regarding the judge’s elevation.
Joseph explained that the defence had already begun presenting witnesses before the earlier adjournment.
He recalled that the second defence witness, Inspector El-John Nwonke, had completed his testimony in March.
However, he said counsel representing the first defendant had requested time to review portions of the witness’s testimony and court records before cross-examination.
Defence Requests More Time
Counsel representing Kyari and another defendant, ACP Sunday J. Ubua, argued that the prosecution’s description of events did not fully reflect what happened in court.
The lawyer, appearing on behalf of senior counsel Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, said the defence team needed additional time to compare transcripts and review evidence presented during the witness’s testimony.
He also informed the court that Nwonke was outside Nigeria on official assignment and that arrangements would be needed to secure his attendance.
The defence further stated that some senior lawyers involved in the matter were unavailable because of professional engagements outside Abuja.
Court Prioritises Speedy Conclusion
Other defence lawyers did not oppose an accelerated conclusion of the case but requested reasonable time to prepare witnesses.
Counsel for the fifth defendant, Leke Atalogbe, noted that the defendants remained in custody and said they were interested in an early resolution of the matter.
Justice Nwite said the priority of the court was to ensure that the case was concluded without unnecessary delays.
“This is one of the matters holding me back here,” the judge said.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite ordered that the trial would proceed continuously until completion.
The case was adjourned until October 5 for continuation of defence proceedings.
