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The case of one Ismaila Mustapha also known as Mompha, a suspected internet fraudster was arraigned in absentia before Justice Mojisola Dada of a Special Offences Court, Ikeja has been adjourned to November 16, 2022.
With all efforts made by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, to arrest Mustapha, his trial will proceed in absentia.
The prosecuting counsel, A O Mohammed during proceedings on Wednesday, stated that the commission had made a frantic effort to arrest the defendant.
He said, “We had also written letters to our counterpart to secure the presence of the defendant in this Honourable court. My Lord, we will be asking for another date to enable the prosecution of the defendant on trial in absentia.
Counsel who held brief for the defence counsel, Mr Gboyega Oyewole, SAN, Mr Kolawale Salami and Ademola while aligning with the prosecution, confirmed the position of the commission and asked for an adjournment.
Justice Dada adjourned further trial till November 16, 2022, while stating, “Make sure you bring your witnesses on that date, she told the commission.
Meanwhile, the judge had earlier issued a bench warrant to the defendant for the failure to appear in court for trial.
Mustapha, who is being prosecuted by EFCC on eight charges bordering on the offences of conspiracy and money laundering to the tune of over N6 billion, along with his company, Ismalob Global Investment Limited.
Mustapha was arrested on January 10, 2022, by EFCC, arraigned and granted bail.
However, he has failed to appear in court on two scheduled dates for his trial and as a result, extended his case.
