Professor charged with forgery gets new trial date

Justice Saliu Saidu of the Federal High Court, Lagos yesterday fixed May 18 for the continuation of the trial of a professor, Joseph Mba, charged with forgery and perjury. The court adjourned the case following an application for adjournment filed by counsel to the accused, Mr. E.I Uko.

Uko had informed the court that he was yet to be served with the proof of evidence by the prosecution in order to get him prepared for trial. He, therefore, prayed the court for a further adjournment to enable him regularise.

The prosecutor, Mr. Effiong Asuquo, did not object to the prayer for adjournment, but stated that he would make the proof of evidence available to defence counsel.

As a result, Justice Saidu fixed May 18 for trial.

The accused was arraigned on February 11 by the Special Fraud Unit (SFU) on a three-count charge bordering on the offence. He had pleaded not guilty to the charges.

According to the charge, the accused was alleged to have forged documents in the name of the Institute of Strategic Management Nigeria Limited. The prosecutor had told the court that the accused allegedly forged a Special Resolution of the Institute of Strategic Management Nigeria Limited dated June 11, 2012.

According to the prosecutor, the forgery was with the intention of changing the name of the institution to the Institute of Strategic Management Ltd. The document was alleged to have been signed by one Dr. Austin Uwandulu to make it appear genuine.

The accused was also said to have forged another Special Resolution of the Institute of Strategic Management Nigeria Ltd, where he stated that one Samuel Ojo had been appointed secretary of the institution.