Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal High Court, Apo, Abuja, on Thursday, November 14, 2024, expressed frustration over alleged delay tactics employed by Adeola Adedipe, SAN, counsel to former Minister of Power Olu Agunloye. The ex-minister is facing a $6 billion fraud trial over alleged corruption and the fraudulent award of the Mambilla Power Project contract.
During proceedings, Justice Onwuegbuzie noted repeated excuses by the defense, citing Agunloye’s health and age, as well as numerous motions, which have stalled progress in the case. Addressing Adedipe, the judge stated, “My principle of justice is that of no delay. You have brought issues like amicus curiae and wasted the court’s time. In my court, processes must be served in a timely manner with due respect to all parties.”
The prosecution, led by Abba Mohammed, SAN, informed the court of its application to amend charges filed on October 30, 2024. However, the defense responded with a counter-affidavit and requested an adjournment to review the prosecution’s filings.
Justice Onwuegbuzie adjourned the case to November 28, 2024, for a ruling on the prosecution’s application.
