By Olalekan Awojodu
Abuja
The Former Chairman, Pension Reform Task Team, Abdulrasheed Maina on Wednesday opted for a no-case submission in his trial before the Federal High Court, Abuja.
Meanwhile, the prosecution has closed its case at the resumed hearing after calling nine witnesses to prove its case.
When called upon to open his defence, Maina’s lawyer, Anayo Adibe said his client was desirous of making a no-case-submission.
When called upon to open his defence, Maina’s lawyer, Anayo Adibe said his client was desirous of making a no-case-submission.
The former pension reformed boss, through his lawyer, Anayo Adibe, made his intention known shortly after he cross examined the ninth prosecution witness (PW9), Rouqquaya Ibrahim, an EFCC investigator.
Following the development, the trial judge, Justice Okon Abang has adjourned till December 10 so that Maina can open his defence.
Delivering a bench Ruling, Justice Abang noted the ACJA 2015 did not make provision for the filing of a written address in support of the no-case and ordered the parties to argue it orally on the next adjourned date.
While addressing newsmen shortly after the proceedings of the day, Maina’s counsel said it would not be possible for the defense to address the court on the no-case submission tomorrow, arguing that they have not been given adequate time and facility to conduct the case.
Maina and his firm, Common Input LTD are being tried before the court on a 12-count charge of money laundering.
Although he is facing 12-counts bordering on money laundering up to the tune of N2 billion, he had pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
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