Proceedings in the alleged fraud case involving former National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Shehu Gabam, were on Wednesday adjourned by a Magistrate Court sitting in Wuse, Abuja, following the non-availability of a key bank statement expected to be tendered as evidence.
The prosecution informed the court that the crucial banking document could not be obtained before the scheduled hearing, prompting a request for additional time.
Speaking with journalists after the proceedings, SDP National Chairman, Professor Sadiq Abubakar Gombe, said efforts had been made to secure the statement directly from the bank, but the document was not released in time. According to him, the prosecution subsequently obtained a subpoena from the court compelling the bank to produce the records.
Gombe explained that the financial institution disclosed that the statement consists of numerous pages and must undergo certification, official stamping, and clearance from its headquarters before it can be released.
“The bank statement is one of the critical documents required in this case. We approached the bank, but it could not be released immediately. The court then issued a subpoena, and the bank requested additional time because the records are voluminous and must go through certification and approval processes,” he said.
Following the explanation, the court adjourned the matter until July 28 for continuation of hearing. The case is expected to resume once the subpoenaed banking records are produced and admitted as evidence.
The adjournment marks the latest development in the legal proceedings involving Gabam, with both parties expected to return to court next month for further hearing.
