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Yahaya Bello's money laundering trial adjourned over witness statement dispute
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
The Federal High Court, Abuja, has adjourned the alleged money laundering trial of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to April 24, 2026. The adjournment is for a ruling on whether the prosecution can use a witness's initial statement to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC to refresh his memory or contradict his testimony. Joseph Daudu SAN, counsel for the former governor, objected to the prosecution's attempt to re-present Exhibit 46, the 12th Prosecution Witness鈥檚 statement. Daudu argued that if the prosecution intended to contradict its witness, it must first seek the court's leave to declare the witness hostile. This objection arose after the witness, Abdullahi Jamilu, gave evidence that appeared inconsistent with his initial statement. Jamilu, owner of Kumfayakum Global Limited, testified that he converted funds deposited by Abba Adaudu into US dollars and handed them over to Adaudu at their respective offices in Abuja. When asked about other delivery locations, he maintained deliveries occurred only at the offices. The prosecution counsel, Kemi Pinheiro SAN, sought to show the witness his earlier statement to refresh his memory, citing Section 2391, 2, and 3 of the Evidence Act. However, Daudu contended that this amounted to an attempt to treat the witness as hostile without following proper procedure, referencing Section 230 of the Evidence Act and the case of Ibe v. State 1997 LPELR-1389 SC. Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the sitting for a ruling on
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has advised Nigerians not to support former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 presidential election, accusing him of ethnic politics. Lawal made these comments during a telephone interview, reacting to a controversy surrounding the African Democratic Congress ADC governorship ticket in Adamawa State. He alleged that Atiku was attempting to replace the party鈥檚 governorship candidate, Suleiman Omar, with Tukur Modibbo, claiming Atiku's politics are ethnically motivated. In response, Atiku Abubakar, through his media aide Phrank Shaibu, denied the allegations, calling them false and baseless. The statement asserted that Atiku had no involvement in any plot to replace the ADC governorship candidate in Adamawa State, and that those behind the claims were uncomfortable with the party's growing unity. The statement urged party members and the public to disregard what it termed "malicious propaganda," emphasizing the ADC's commitment to due process and internal democracy.
Must ReadSix candidates for United Nations secretary-general will engage in a televised debate on Thursday in the General Assembly Hall, preceding the formal selection process. The event, broadcast by Bloomberg, will feature 90 minutes of questions from diplomats, UN employees, and civil society representatives. The candidates include Michelle Bachelet of Chile, Maria Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador, Rafael Grossi of Argentina, Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana, and Macky Sall of Senegal. General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock highlighted the importance of this "UN town hall" for understanding the candidates' visions for one of the world's most crucial positions, especially given the UN's current financial and confidence challenges. The United States, for instance, advocates for a return to the organization's core purposes of peace and security. Analysts note that the current campaign is less energetic than the 2016 race, with candidates seemingly cautious to avoid displeasing veto powers. The 15 members of the Security Council are scheduled to hold their first closed-door, anonymous vote on July 30, with subsequent votes until a candidate secures nine votes without a veto. The selected candidate's name will then be sent to the General Assembly for formal appointment, with the new secretary-general taking office on January 1, 2027. While Rafael Grossi is frequently mentioned as a front-runner, other candidates like Grynspan and Rodrigues-Birkett als
Premier League fans have chosen their best XI from the 2026 FIFA World Cup through a worldwide vote on the EPL's website. The selection features top-flight stars recognized for their performances. Manchester City midfielder Rodri was named among the standout players after leading Spain to their second World Cup title and winning the Golden Ball award. Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford secured his place after becoming England鈥檚 most-capped men鈥檚 goalkeeper in World Cup history. Tottenham Hotspur defender Pedro Porro was selected at right-back, while Argentina defenders Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez formed the center-back partnership. England defender Djed Spence completed the defense. The midfield trio included Elliot Anderson, Rodri, and Enzo Fernandez. Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka, Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, and Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr completed the XI. This fan-selected team highlights the significant influence of Premier League players in the 2026 World Cup.