#DasukiGate: Metuh Declines Defence; Asks Court To Acquit Him

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines, News Thursday, February 18th, 2016

By Ganiyu Nasirudeen

The National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh currently standing trial on a seven count charge of money laundering and diversion of public funds before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, has opted for a no – case submission.

Metuh who was arrested January 5, 2016 and investigated by the officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), through his private firm, Dextra Investments was alleged to have collected the sum of N400 Million from the former NSA, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd). The sum was part of $2.1 Billion arms procurement money to fight Boko Haram insurgents.

Already, the EFCC has called eight witnesses who have been cross examined, by the Counsels to the parties. The agency closed its case last week – February 9, 2016.

Given Metuh’s submission, the suspect has prayed the court to discharge and acquit him as the prosecutor could not establish any link to him in the alleged criminal offence.

Justice Okon Abang in line with the request by Metuh’s Counsel, Mr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), in his ruling ordered the suspect to file ‎a written address on the no-case submission.

In another application, Ikpeazu, prayed the court to grant request on making some amendment to the charges‎ in counts one, two and seven of the suit.