Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the medical reports submitted by Tuoyo Omatsuli, former Executive Director of Projects at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), which have repeatedly delayed his arraignment in a N3.6 billion fraud case. The court warned that a warrant of arrest would be issued if the reports were found to be falsified.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, lead prosecutor Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, informed the court that the prosecution was prepared to proceed with the trial but was again presented with a medical excuse from Omatsuli’s defense. Expressing frustration, he suggested summoning the Chief Medical Director who signed the documents, emphasizing the logistical and financial burden on prosecution witnesses traveling from Abuja and Port Harcourt.
Omatsuli’s counsel, Prof. Abiodun A-Kannike, SAN, defended his client’s absence, citing an official report from the Delta State Hospitals Management Board stating that Omatsuli was undergoing medical treatment and scheduled for further procedures.
Norrsion Quakers, SAN, representing co-defendant Francis Momoh, also raised concerns about the delays, urging the court to consider proceeding with the trial of other defendants if Omatsuli remained unavailable.
Justice Osiagor declined to issue an immediate arrest warrant but ordered an EFCC probe into the authenticity of Omatsuli’s medical claims. If found fraudulent, a warrant will be issued.
Omatsuli, along with Momoh, Don Parker Properties Limited, and Building Associates Limited, is facing charges of conspiracy and money laundering amounting to N3.6 billion. The trial continues on May 19, 20, and 21, 2025.
