Alleged N2.1bn fraud: Absence of Dokpesi’s lawyer stalls trial


The absence of Kanu Agabi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria Wednesday
stalled the ongoing trial of Chief Raymond Dokpesi, before a Federal
High Court, Abuja.
Agabi, who is the lead counsel, is amongst four other SAN
appearing before the court for the trial.

Dokpesi is facing trial for the alleged diversion of N2.1 billion
received from the office of former National Security Adviser, Sambo
Dasuki.

Having denied the allegations against him, he has also accused the
federal government of defamation his character.

At the opening of the session Wednesday, the counsel for the
prosecution, Rotimi Jacob, told the court that the defence issued him
a letter that the lead counsel is bereaved.

“Today is meant for the defence to open case. I am confronted with a
letter that the lead counsel, Kanu Agabi, is bereaved. We have five
SANs, including Mike Ozekhome who chose this date.

 “They suggest two months adjournment April 24. As much as I
sympathise with the lead counsel in the matter, I submit that one of
the SANs should be sent to handle this matter.

“I urge the court that he grants this adjournment until tomorrow
because any counsel that announced appearance in a matter is fit to
handle the case. It is not a law that only the lead counsel will
handle, ” Mr Jacob added.

Responding to Jacob’s submission, the counsel appearing for the
defence, Ayo Ogundele said although Wole Olanipekun is the lead
counsel, Kanu Agabi has been the one following up this matter
personally.

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