A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an arrest warrant for Hathiramani Ranesh, the Managing Director of Dana Air, following his failure to appear in court for trial. Justice Obiora Egwuatu determined that Ranesh's absence was inexcusable, particularly after he had been served with charges related to alleged fraud totaling over N1.3 billion.
In his ruling, Justice Egwuatu cited Section 184 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, which permits the court to issue an arrest warrant for any defendant who does not attend court. The judge emphasized that Ranesh is required to appear in court, stating, "The defendant shall appear before this court on 13th of January, 2025, before any objection can be taken."
The case against Ranesh, along with Dana Group PLC and Dana Steel Ltd as co-defendants, involves multiple allegations of fraud and conspiracy, including the alleged removal and sale of industrial generators and the fraudulent diversion of significant funds from a bank bond intended for the Dana Steel Rolling Factory.
The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), represented by Mojisola-Okeya Esho, had initially requested a bench warrant for Ranesh's arrest due to his non-appearance. Esho argued that Ranesh's absence hindered the court's ability to proceed with the arraignment and that the defendants should be present before any preliminary objections could be considered.
In contrast, Ranesh's defense attorney, B. Ademola-Bello, contended that they had filed a preliminary objection questioning the court's jurisdiction and that the prosecution had been adequately served with their filings. He insisted that the issue of jurisdiction should be resolved prior to addressing any other matters.
During the proceedings, Justice Egwuatu expressed frustration over the absence of the defendants, particularly questioning the respect for the court. Despite the defense's assertion that Ranesh was currently out of the country, the judge reiterated the need for his presence, ultimately ordering his arrest.
The case has been adjourned until January 13, 2025, for further proceedings.
