Naira Marley’s Fraud Trial Stalls, As Defence Demands Additional Proof Of Evidence

The trial of controversial Musician, Azeez Fashola, also known as Naira Marley, was yesterday stalled due to an application filed by his lawyer, Olalekan Ojo, seeking additional proof of evidence.

The trial judge, Justice Nicholas Oweibo had fixed today for the commencement of trial but he was forced to stop trial to hear the application.

After listening to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo and ) Ojo argued the application, the judge held that the anti-graft agency had satisfied the requirements of the law.

In his bench ruling, the judge also held, “it must be borne in mind that the trial in the Federal High Court is a summary trial and therefore the proof of evidence is not required.

However, prosecution should furnish the defendants with the investigative officers report and the statements of witnesses if any”.

Read Also: Alleged N6.9b Fraud: Fayose’s Trial Resumes Before New Judge

The court then fixed Wednesday for commencement of trial.

The EFCC had arraigned Naira Marley before the court on an 11 count charge of conspiracy and fraud.

Naira Marley pleaded not guilty to the charge.

He risks seven years in jail if found guilty in accordance with Section 33 (2) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.

Some of the credit cards, according to the anti-graft agency, bore Nicole Louise Malyon, and Timea Fedorne Tatar.

The alleged crimes were in contravention of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act and the Cyber Crimes Act.

4th October 2024
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