by Akinwale Fasemore
Embattled former National security adviser (NSA) Col. Sambo Dasuki rtd, has told a Federal High Court
in Abuja that he is being persecuted by the ruling government in Nigeria for old grievances held against him while he served in the military. Though there were no particular names mentioned by the Ex-NSA, he maintained that his persecution is unfortunate and it is borne out of personal vendetta.
Speaking through his counsel, Joseph Daudu (SAN) on the request of the Federal Government that he should be tried secretly, the former NSA said that although he had rested the case in God’s hands, however it would be appropriate for everyone to be availed of the facts of the case.
The Federal Government had opted for a secret trial for Mr. Dasuki because of the sensitivity of his person and position so that witnesses in the matter could be given necessary protection.
“It is crystal clear that the defendant (Dasuki) is being punished by the powers that be for the perceived offenses committed long before… we leave them to the Almighty God for His ultimate judgment.”
Col. Dasuki had been arraigned before three different courts on various allegations leveled against him, bordering on unlawful possession of firearms, money laundering and breach of trust, granted bail, he was re-arrested in December last year By F.G and has been held incommunicado from his family and counsel. At his resumed trial, Federal Government sought the request for his secret trial. According to the prosecuting counsel, Dipo Okpeseyi (SAN), the government prayed the court to grant witnesses to give evidence behind camera, provided by the court.
Counsel to the Federal Government sought the request on the ground that as a former NSA there are loyalists across board who may jeopardize the trial if done in open.
“In the highest military office where Dasuki served last, loyalty is the first, second and the last rule and because of the peculiar nature of loyalty some people have for him within the military and beyond, those to give evidence in the trial were staff of the defendant at one time or the other.
“Since the witnesses are those whose primary duty is to assist the court in arriving at a just conclusion, the issue of security must be viewed with serious concern.
“I, therefore, urge the court to screen the witnesses from the public in the interest of justice as well as to protect them, their families and career.”
However counsel to the defendant Mr. Joseph Daudu (SAN), out rightly opposed the request for secret trial on the ground that it will hinder the sanctity of fair trial. The defense reiterated that an open trial is the minimum requirement in a criminal case and maintained that any attempt to derail and opt for secret trial will be contrary to section 36 of the 1999 constitution on fair trial.
“I hereby urge the court to dismiss the application for secret trial, as such would trample on the rights of the defendant to fair trial,” Mr. Daudu said.
However, Justice Adeniyi Ademola fixed the ruling and continuation of the trial to September 13,14 and 15 after taking both parties argument.