Following the absence of the former Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District, Andy Uba, in court over allegations of N400 million appointment fraud, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has formally requested that a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja issue a bench warrant for Uba’s arrest.

The IGP sought the arrest order yesterday following the continuous failure of Uba to appear in court for arraignment. The trial judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, had, in July, slated yesterday, September 24, for the arraignment of Uba and his co-defendant, Benjamin Etu.

When the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/538/2024 was called yesterday, counsel to the defendants, C.L. Odiniru, apologised for Uba’s absence and stated that the former senator is ill and receiving treatment in the United States.

Counsel to the prosecution, Aminu Abdullahi, however, told the court that the defence counsel had, during previous proceedings in the matter, given sickness as a reason for the absence of the first defendant without adducing any documentary evidence to show that he is actually sick and cannot face his trial.

Abdullahi prayed that the court issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the former senator. Odiniru opposed the application for a bench warrant and, following a directive of the court, said the defence has obtained documents showing that Uba is receiving treatment abroad. But responding, Abdullahi said granting the application for a bench warrant will be in the best interest of justice.

Justice Umar, who was apparently angry over the repeated absence of Uba, said the court will do whatever it takes to ensure that he is present to face his trial if he fails to come to court on the next adjourned date.

“I will give you another opportunity by giving you another date. This case must be heard this year. Even if it means issuing a bench warrant of arrest, the court will do that,” the judge said, adjourning the matter till October 28, 2025, for Uba and his co-defendant to take their plea.