EFCC re-arraigns former (SGF) Babachir Lawal
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday re-arraigned former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, before Justice Charles Agbaza of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Jabi.
Lawal is facing criminal prosecution alongside three others namely: Hamidu David Lawal (his younger brother), Sulaiman Abubakar, Apeh John Monday and two companies, Rholavision Engineering Ltd and Josmon Technologies Ltd.
Their re-arraignment followed the demise of the former trial judge, Justice Jude Okeke of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Maitama, Abuja.
They all pleaded not guilty to the charge, upon which the defence team prayed the court to allow them to continue on the bail earlier granted them by the late Justice Okeke, noting that the defendants have faithfully adhered to their bail terms.
The prosecution counsel, Offem Uket, made no objection, following which Justice Agbaza ruled in favour of the defence counsel’s prayer and adjourned the matter till January 20 and 21, 2021 for continuation of trial.
The defendants were docked on amended 10-count bordering on diversion of funds, criminal conspiracy and official corruption to the tune of N544 million.