The N700 million fraud case preferred against Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 19, gubernatorial election in Edo state was on Thursday stalled due to the absence of the trial Judge, Justice Umar Garba.
Ize-Iyamu is standing trial alongside four others in suit No: FHC/BE21C/ 2016 for allegedly receiving public funds illegally to the tune of N700 million for the purpose of the 2015 general elections.
According to the charge sheet, the offence is contrary to the provisions of the EFCC Act and the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act.
Other defendants in the suit include a former deputy governor of Edo state, Mr. Lucky Imasuen, Efe Erimuoghae Anthony and two others.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu was also absent in court on Thursday while his counsel, Barrister Peter Uwadiae was present.
The court had on June 18, 2020 validated the corruption charges against the defendants and adjourned the case to Thursday, July 2, 2020, for further hearing.
Counsel to parties in the suit however picked July 7, 2020 as the next adjournment date.
