The trial of the leader of the Movement for
the Emancipation of the Niger-Delta (MEND) and alleged mastermind of the
October 1, 2010 bombing in Abuja, Mr Henry Okah, began on Monday, in
South Africa.
Mr
Okah is facing a 15-count charge for the twin bomb blast that killed
more than 10 people in the nation’s capital during the elaborate
celebration of the nation’s 50th independence anniversary, on October 1, 2010.
His initial 5-count charge was on Monday, amended to 15, as the trial proceeding commenced amid tight security. The streets adjourning the courts in Johannesburg, were reportedly cordoned off as thorough screening was carried out within the court premises.
Briefing the new presiding judge, the lead prosecuting counsel, Shaun Abrahams revealed that he has formal confirmation from Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice that there would be no extradition request for the defendant.
He also revealed a pledge by the Federal Government to fully cooperate with the trial.
First to be called to the witness stand by the prosecutor was the Minister for the Niger Delta, Godsday Orubebe, referred to as Witness 17.
He gave the historical perspective of the agitation of the Niger Delta people leading to the amnesty programme for militants in the region.
He identified the amnesty documents relating to the defendant, which Mr Okah who was also present in court, said he has no problem with.
Mr Orubebe was further questioned on his visits and dealings with the defendant which ranged from business to issues on the Niger Delta.
The Minister however denied having anything to do with a document on a quotation for the purchase of arms by Mr Okah.
The Judge adjourned the case till Tuesday, owing to the fact that the day was far gone and the inadequate time for the defence counsel, Lucky Mahlala, to cross examine the witness.
With regard to Mr Okah’s bail application, his counsel expressed the hope to get the response of the prosecution by midweek before it can be taken further.
This trial is said to be expected to last about 18months as more than 100 witnesses are expected from both sides collectively.
Mr
Okah is facing a 15-count charge for the twin bomb blast that killed
more than 10 people in the nation’s capital during the elaborate
celebration of the nation’s 50th independence anniversary, on October 1, 2010.His initial 5-count charge was on Monday, amended to 15, as the trial proceeding commenced amid tight security. The streets adjourning the courts in Johannesburg, were reportedly cordoned off as thorough screening was carried out within the court premises.
Briefing the new presiding judge, the lead prosecuting counsel, Shaun Abrahams revealed that he has formal confirmation from Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice that there would be no extradition request for the defendant.
He also revealed a pledge by the Federal Government to fully cooperate with the trial.
First to be called to the witness stand by the prosecutor was the Minister for the Niger Delta, Godsday Orubebe, referred to as Witness 17.
He gave the historical perspective of the agitation of the Niger Delta people leading to the amnesty programme for militants in the region.
He identified the amnesty documents relating to the defendant, which Mr Okah who was also present in court, said he has no problem with.
Mr Orubebe was further questioned on his visits and dealings with the defendant which ranged from business to issues on the Niger Delta.
The Minister however denied having anything to do with a document on a quotation for the purchase of arms by Mr Okah.
The Judge adjourned the case till Tuesday, owing to the fact that the day was far gone and the inadequate time for the defence counsel, Lucky Mahlala, to cross examine the witness.
With regard to Mr Okah’s bail application, his counsel expressed the hope to get the response of the prosecution by midweek before it can be taken further.
This trial is said to be expected to last about 18months as more than 100 witnesses are expected from both sides collectively.
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