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Court adjourns Jang’s case indefinitely

By Isa Abdulsalami Ahovi, Jos
19 July 2022   |   4:01 am
JUDGMENT in the fraud suit against former governor of Plateau State, Sen. Jonah Jang, and a former cashier in the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Yusuf Pam, has been adjourned indefinitely.

Judgement in the fraud suit against former governor of Plateau State, Sen. Jonah Jang, and a former cashier in the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Yusuf Pam, has been adjourned indefinitely.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accused the duo of mismanaging N6.3 billion meant for small businesses when Jang was governor from 2007 to 2015.

Justice Christy Dabup of the Plateau High Court 2, who presided over the proceedings, said the court adjourned the case sine die, adding that the counsel, the plaintiffs and the defendants would be notified when the judgment is ready.

The matter came up for adoption of final written addresses by both counsel to close their case.

But a mild drama ensued between the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacob (SAN), and defence counsel, Mike Ozekhome (SAN) over a fresh motion brought by the prosecution.

The prosecution counsel told the court that the matter was adjourned for adoption of final written addresses, but that he wanted to file notice of appeal on the ruling of trial within trial, and therefore urged the court to allow him to move his two applications dated July 8, 2022.

Jacob wanted the court to grant him the prayers, which are supported by affidavit and written addresses for his appeal.

However, counsel to the second defendant, Sunday Odey, raised a complaint that they were served with two motions targeted at their client (Pam), adding that the business of the day was for adoption of final written addresses, but that things were taking a different twist.

The two legal luminaries, Ozekhome and Jacob, accused each other of trying to intimidate and harass judges, making the court rowdy.

At the heat of the arguments, Justice Dabup abandoned the court and went into his inner chamber, while the court was temporarily brought to a close. But the judge resumed after about 10 minutes and the two legal luminaries apologised to the court for nor taming their emotions.

After reasoning with the arguments of the duo, the presiding judge adjourned till a date that would be communicated to the parties.

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