Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Apo, Abuja, dismissed an application on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, filed by former Minister of Power and Steel, Mr. Olu Agunloye, seeking permission to travel abroad for a medical check-up.
On July 1, 2024, Agunloye, through his counsel, Adeola Adedikpe, SAN, requested the release of his passport to enable overseas travel for medical examination. The application included documents from University College Hospital, NISA Premier Hospital, a medical review letter from the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), and an invitation from a foreign medical analyst.
In opposition, prosecution counsel Abba Mohammed presented a counter-affidavit from EFCC investigator Hussain Babangida, urging the court to deny the request, citing Agunloye as a potential flight risk.
Justice Onwuegbuzie ruled that Agunloye did not provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate that his medical condition could not be treated in Nigeria. Agunloye is currently facing prosecution by the EFCC on seven-count charges related to a fraudulent $6 billion Mambilla Power Project contract.
The trial has been adjourned until September 23, 2024.
