Come February 22, 2021, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will arraign the former minister of aviation, Ms Stella Oduah at the Federal High Court, Abuja, for alleged financial impropriety.
According to reports by the NAN, Justice Inyang Ekwo fixed the date on Tuesday because the former minister was yet to be served with the court processes. Oduah, who currently represents Anambra North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, is facing fraud charge alongside eight others in a suit with number: FHC/ABJ/CR/316/20.
Although the arraignment was scheduled for the day’s sitting, the case could not proceed because the lawmaker was not in court. Counsel for the EFCC, Dr Hassan Liman, told the court that the ex-minister had not been served with the court processes. The lawyer, therefore, prayed for an adjournment to enable the anti-graft agency served the legislator.
“My lord, the matter has been set out today for arraignment, but I have been informed by the commission that the first defendant (Oduah) is yet to be served. “In view of that my lord, may I humbly apply for a very short date,” he said.
Justice Ekwo held that it was the duty of the prosecution to produce defendants in court.
The judge then adjourned the matter until February 22 for the defendants to take their plea. The EFCC alleged that Oduah misappropriated public funds while serving as minister.
