Fuel subsidy scam: Court adjourns Ali’s trial to accommodate more suspects

A Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja, has adjourned the trial of the son of former PDP National Chairman, Ahmadu Ali – Mamman Nasir Ali, alongside others till the 12th of November, 2012.
The others expected to face trial before presiding Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo alongside the former PDP National Chairman’s son, includes Nasaman Oil Services and Christian Taylor.
They were all charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretence, forgery and the use of false documents.
At the resumed hearing of the matter today, counsel to the EFCC, Francis Usani, informed the court that the matter had earlier been adjourned till today (Tuesday) for trial, but explained that the commission would not be able to continue with the trial because of what he termed “some pressing issues which would assist the court in the true dispensation of justice”.
According to Usani, “The prosecution intends to join one Seun Ogunbambo as defendant in the matter.
“This is because as at the time the charge was filed, information relating to Ogunbambo had not reached the EFCC.”
In response, defence counsel, Toyin Pinheiro (SAN) who did not object to the submission of the EFCC said, “We would wait for the amendment of the charge to be effected.
“Though I know the defendants have no case to answer.”
In the meantime, Mamman Nasir Ali as well as the other defendants will continue to enjoy the bail already granted them by the court after their arraignment.