In the trial overseen by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, a prosecuting witness (PW3) provided crucial testimony implicating Ali Bello and Dauda Suleiman, who stand accused of money laundering amounting to N10 billion by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The witness, Rabiu Musa Tafada, an operator of a Bureau de Change named “Rabiu Tafada Global Ventures” located at Plot 2339, Ladi Kwali Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, stated on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, that Suleiman was a regular client at his establishment. Tafada informed the court that Suleiman frequented his office for various currency transactions, including purchasing, borrowing, or selling dollars.
Under questioning from the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, Tafada confirmed his familiarity with Suleiman and recounted an instance where EFCC officials visited his office in 2023 and seized documents, including a hard copy notebook and an exercise book. Tafada acknowledged these items as the documents confiscated by the EFCC.
Upon the prosecution’s request to tender these documents as evidence, objections were raised by the defense counsel, Nureini Jimoh, SAN, particularly concerning loose sheets found among the items. However, Justice Omotosho ruled to overrule the objections, allowing the documents to be admitted as evidence (Exhibits F & G), while advising the defense to address their concerns in written submissions.
During cross-examination, Tafada affirmed the contents of the exhibits, explaining that entries in the record book pertained to currency exchange transactions or cash transfers to his account, which were typically recorded by his office staff as he himself was unable to write.
Tafada recalled specific instances involving Suleiman, such as directing his staff to record transactions involving named individuals and corresponding amounts, including transactions totaling N15 million and N99 million, where Suleiman either personally visited Tafada’s office or sent his representative.
Prior to adjourning the proceedings, the prosecution and defense drew attention to an amended charge and a counter-affidavit, respectively, both of which had been filed before the court. Justice Omotosho scheduled the continuation of the trial for February 13, 2024, following the completion of PW3’s testimony.
