Court Threatens To Declare Fani-Kayode Wanted
The Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday, threatened to declare former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, wanted for his refusal to appear for trial.
Fani-Kayode is standing trial on 12 counts bordering on the use of false documents, use of fabricated evidence, procuring the execution of documents by false pretense and fabricating evidence,
According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Fani-Kayode, who is also being prosecuted for an alleged N4.9billion fraud before Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, is standing trial before Justice Abike-Fadipe, following his alleged use of forged medical report(s), which he tendered at the Federal High Court to justify his absence in Court.
Justice Olubumni Abike-Fadipe expressed displeasure with the constant non-appearance of the defendant, noting that the last time he was in Court was November 4, 2022.
He pleaded not guilty to the charges when he was arraigned on December 17, 2021.
At the last sitting on February 20, 2023, the Defence counsel, Wale Balogun, had informed the Court of the absence of the defendant due to ill health and a running battle he had with both the DSS and the Police hence, the matter was adjourned till May 24 and 25, 2023 for the continuation of trial.
However, at Wednesday’s proceeding, the Defence counsel, Chinozo Eze, told the Court that Fami-Kayode was not in Court due to health issues.
He also said that a medical report and a letter seeking the leave of the Court to vacate the dates earlier granted by the Court had been filed before the Court.
Counsel to the EFCC, Z. Atiku, confirmed the receipt of the letter and said the prosecution’s hands were tied in this situation.
The Court then threatened to issue a bench warrant against Fani-Kayode, if he again fails to appear in Court at the next adjourned date of November 7, 2023.
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