The trial of Sani Shuaibu and 33 others, accused of stealing N12 billion pension funds, was stalled at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday.
Shuaibu is a former Director of Pension Administration in the Office of the Head of Service of the Federation,
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the trial was suspended as a result of the absence of an accused person, Phina Chidi, a Deputy Director, Finance and Accounts, in the establishment.
At the resumed hearing, Mr Goddy Uche, counsel to Chidi, informed the court that his client was absent because of her poor health.
Uche explained that Chidi was on admission at the National Hospital, Abuja, for an undisclosed ailment.
He said that the accused had never absented herself since the beginning of the trial, adding that “there is a doctor’s report to show that she is actually indisposed and on admission, my Lord.''
“I have informed counsel to parties in the matter, including the prosecutor before the commencement of the proceeding.? My Lord, I am indeed sorry for the setback,’’ he said.
Mr Nonso Egbuagu, the prosecutor, said that the accused persons must assist the court to ensure diligent prosecution.
Egbuagu, who held brief for Chief Godwin Obla, urged the court to adjourn the matter to give room for the accused person to regain her health.
Obla had submitted that the accused persons were not well disposed to opening the trial and that the charges sufficiently linked the accused to the allegation.
NAN reports that Aliyu Bello, the personal assistant to Shuaibu, is among the accused.
Justice Adamu Bello adjourned the matter to Jan. 16 for hearing. ?
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