Alleged N29b fraud: Court orders ex-Gov Nyako, son, others to enter defence 

By ERIC IKHILAE, Abuja

A Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected the no-case submission by former Adamawa Governor Admiral Murtala Nyako (rtd), his son, Abdulaziz and others being tried for their alleged complicity in the diversion of about N29billion public funds.

Nyako, Abdulaziz, Zulkifik Abba, Abubakar Aliyu, Sebore Farms and Extension Ltd, Pagado Fortunes Ltd, Blue Opal Ltd, Tower Assets Management Ltd and Crust Energy Ltd are being tried on a 37-count money laundering charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Justice Okon Abang, in a ruling on Monday, held the prosecution has established a prima facie case against the defendants to warrant their being called upon to enter a defence.

Justice Abang said having scrutinised the evidence of the 21 witnesses called by the prosecution and exhibits tendered, he could not resist coming to the conclusion that the defendants have some explanations to make in relation to the charge against them.

The judge then adjourned till October 4 for the defendants to open their defence. (The Nation)