The high-profile corruption trial involving former Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku, and a former Permanent Secretary hit a snag on Wednesday at the Abuja High Court. The proceedings were stalled due to the absence of one of the defendants.
Court Session Disrupted by Absence
The trial, centred on allegations of misappropriating a staggering N27 billion in public funds, could not proceed as scheduled. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had brought charges of criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and conversion of public funds against Mr. Ishaku and Bello Yero, the ex-Permanent Secretary of the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. Both men have entered pleas of not guilty.
On the resumed hearing date of January 14, 2026, the court was informed that the second defendant, Bello Yero, was not present. His legal representative, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adeola Adedipe, took responsibility for the lapse. Adedipe explained to Justice Sylvanus Oriji that he had mistakenly believed the court had vacated the day's sitting, which led to his failure to ensure his client's attendance.
Legal Maneuvers and Health Concerns
The defence counsel urgently requested the court to stand down the matter until 1 pm, assuring the judge that Yero was already at the Yola airport in Adamawa State awaiting the first available flight to Abuja. This application, however, intersected with another concern.
Chris Umar SAN, counsel for former Governor Darius Ishaku, indicated he would typically not oppose such a request. However, he informed the court that his client, the ex-governor, was not feeling well and had a scheduled medical appointment after the court session. Meanwhile, the prosecution counsel, Oluwaleke Atolagbe, expressed his team's constraint, noting that witnesses were present and ready to continue giving evidence.
Judge's Ruling and New Date
After considering the submissions, Justice Oriji noted from the court records that Bello Yero had a consistent record of attendance prior to this incident. The judge also referenced the well-known uncertainties within Nigeria's aviation sector. Rather than granting the stand-down request, which relied on a timely flight, Justice Oriji deemed it more prudent to adjourn the case fully.
The judge subsequently adjourned the trial to February 9, 2026, for the continuation of the evidence from the second prosecution witness. This delay adds another chapter to the lengthy legal battle over the alleged diversion of funds meant for local government administration in Taraba State.
