CCT Chairman Accuses Saraki Of Delaying Trial

CHANNELS TV

Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Mr Danladi Yakubu Umar, has accused the Senate President of trying to delay his trial.

The tribunal chairman, who was reacting to the allegation of delay tactics by the prosecution counsel, Mr Rotimi Jacobs against Saraki’s lawyers said that the consequences of the trial and the charges will in no way be reduced on the accused person by his tribunal.

However, the lead counsel to Saraki, Mr Kanu Agabi, expressed worry over alleged assumed prejudices by the tribunal. He was taken aback by the remark of the CCT Chairman, got up and asked the Chairman on what he meant by the consequences of the tribunal and cautioned the tribunal against influence from opposition and enemies of the rule of law.

Done with that, the cross examination of the chief prosecution witness continued as Mr Micheal Wetkas told the tribunal that Saraki was never invited with regard to the ownership of two properties, No. 1 and 3 Targus Street, Maitama, Abuja.

According to him, the investigative team of the anti-graft agency was more interested in the ownership of the properties which it established to belong to the Senate President, because he purchased it using his company Carlisle Properties and Investment Limited.

Further cross examination of the witness has been adjourned to June 15.

The trial of Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, for alleged false declaration of assets at the Code of Conduct Tribunal, Abuja, was adjourned till Wednesday, June 15, 2016.

The tribunal adjourned hearing to give Dr. Saraki’s lead counsel, Mr Agabi, time to see his physician for routine medical examination.

The prosecution had objected Mr Kanu Agabi’s request for an adjournment to allow him see his doctor.

Lead Prosecution Counsel, Mr Rotimi Jacobs, said that the court should finish with the cross-examination of its witness Mr. Wetkas this week as planned but the court resolved to give Mr Agabi one week to attend to his health.