The High Court of the FCT, Maitama, presided over by Justice Sylvanus Oriji, granted former Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku, permission to travel abroad for medical treatment.
Ishaku and his co-defendant, Bello Yero (a former Permanent Secretary at the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Taraba State), are facing a 15-count charge of criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and illegal conversion of N27 billion in public funds.
Defense Cites Deteriorating Health Condition
Ishaku’s lawyer, Paul Ogbole (SAN), argued that his client’s health was deteriorating, and he needed urgent treatment at Thumbay University Hospital, Ajman, UAE. He requested a five-week leave for the ex-governor to receive medical attention.
Although prosecuting lawyer Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) objected, citing insufficient medical details, Justice Oriji approved the request.
Court Rejects Ramadan Trial Exemption for Co-Defendant
Meanwhile, Ishaku’s co-defendant, Bello Yero, sought permission to be excused from court proceedings during the Ramadan fast, expected to begin in March.
His lawyer, Aseola Adedipe (SAN), argued that fasting would make it difficult for Yero to attend court sessions. However, Justice Oriji dismissed the request, ruling that it was not a sufficient reason to be absent from trial.
The case has been adjourned until March 17 for continuation of trial.
