The trial of former Gov. Gbenga Daniel of Ogun for corrupt practices was stalled on Thursday following an application by the EFCC for more time to amend the charges against him.
When the case came up for hearing,
Counsel to the EFCC, Mr Rotimi Jacobs, urged Justice Olanrewaju Mabekoje of the State High Court for an adjournment to enable the commission to amend the charges.
He told the court that investigations into the case had thrown up more revelations, which necessitated the request for adjournment.
Jacobs said the EFCC had yet to conclude its investigation when it arraigned the former governor, adding that the decision was to ensure that the commission did not run foul of the law, which provides that accused persons must be charged to court within 48 hours of arrest.
Counsel to the defendant, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, did not oppose the request, saying the prosecution had intimated him of their request before the commencement of the proceedings.
The judge acceded to the request and adjourned the case till Nov. 28.
Daniel was arraigned on Oct. 12 by the EFCC on 16 count charges of stealing, fraudulent conversion of state property and failure to declare his asset.
He was, however, granted bail on Oct. 14 in the sum of N500 million, while the judge fixed Nov. 17 for commencement of the trial.
Daniel had arrived at the court for Thursday’s sitting seven minutes after commencement of proceedings, and his Counsel had to apologise to the court, saying the former governor had a flat tyre on his way.