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Nigerian govt files new charges against ex-NSA Dasuki, wants masked witnesses
The Nigerian government has filed fresh charges of alleged money laundering against a former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, who was arraigned in September on a single count charge of illegal possession of firearms.
The government also requested that witnesses against Mr. Dasuki be given special cover, including use of facial mask.
Mr. Dasuki was arrested in August by the State Security Services, shortly after he was removed by President Muhammadu Buhari.
On September 1, the prosecution counsel, Mohammed Diri, told the court that Mr. Dasuki was charged with the unlawful possession of firearms without a licence. The former NSA pleaded not guilty.
The judge granted Mr. Dasuki bail on self-recognition but ordered that his passport and other travel documents be deposited with the deputy court registrar while the case was adjourned to October 26 and 27 for definite hearing.
On resumed hearing Monday, M.S. Labaran, appearing for the prosecution, announced that the one-count charge against Mr. Dasuki had been expanded to include charges bordering on illegal possession of various amounts of local and foreign currency in his Abuja residence and family house in Sokoto.
He said keeping the various amount of foreign currencies was contrary to Money Laundering Prohibition Act 2011.
He also requested that the trial be conducted in secrecy by providing special cover for witnesses from using public routes.
He requested the use of private witness room, use of facial masks, and also urged the court to allow only accredited members of the media to cover the trial.
In a counter motion, one of the counsels to Mr. Dasuki and former president of the Nigeria Bar Association, Joseph Daudu, objected to the request for special cover for prosecution witnesses in the case on the ground that the case was harmless within a democratic setting.
Mr. Daudu said even during military rule, such trials were held openly.
He said in a democracy, rule of law would be the greatest casualty if such trials are made in secret.
“In a criminal trial, the ability of the defence counsel to confront the prosecution witness is pivotal,” he told the court.
He said the identity of the witnesses which the prosecution sought to hide was already in the public domain.
“We consider the trial as harmless to the witnesses. If you make the witnesses anonymous then we may lack the ability to conduct background checks. Even trial of treasonable felony and coup d’état the witnesses are not hidden and we are in a democracy.
“Also for the fact that there has not been cases in this court where witnesses are being molested and in this case it will be a case of injustice if the defence counsel and witnesses are known and the prosecution witnesses who are armed and can protect themselves are shielded. I think all the motions and counter-affidavit have been charged and this is purely an academic exercise,” he argued.
Mr. Daudu also asked the court to release the travel documents of the accused to him so that he would be able to travel abroad for medical check-up.
According to him, Mr. Dasuki was billed to travel a day before his arrest for medical treatment but the arrest and trial had so far prevented him from doing so.
Mr. Labaran, who appeared for the prosecution, therefore requested for adjournment to be able to react to the motion for the release of Mr. Dasuki’s travel documents.
Justice Ademola Adeniyi, who expressed surprise at the new charges, adjourned the case to Wednesday, October 28, 2015 for ruling on prosecution’s request for secret trial and Dasuki’s request for his travel documents to be released to him.
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APC Ondo North Primary: Reports Show ATM in Early Lead
Reports from the field in Ondo North Senatorial District indicate that voters, officers, and agents at the voting centers across the wards have put Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM) in the lead.
According to the current figures collated from the centers, ATM is polling with wider margins of votes
Going by these figures, ATM is poised to win all the six Local Government in the Senatorial Districtt.
We urge all party members and supporters to remain peaceful as collation continues.
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Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele Hosts Ondo North Aspirant Abdul Tunji Mohammed, Backs Grassroots Development Agenda
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele recently hosted Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), a prominent aspirant for the Ondo North senatorial seat.
The meeting highlighted a strategic alignment between progressive forces, with both leaders emphasizing a shared vision for grassroots development and legislative excellence.
Senator Bamidele, a respected figure in Nigerian politics, is recognized for his contributions to national cohesion and impactful policymaking, drawing on his experience as a legal luminary and human rights activist.
Chief Mohammed, an astute businessman and dedicated grassroots mobilizer, has made a notable impact on Ondo North through his philanthropic work and commitment to constituents’ welfare. His approach blends corporate discipline, economic ingenuity, and a deep concern for people—qualities that have reshaped the region’s political narrative.
The two leaders discussed the district’s critical needs, exploring avenues for socioeconomic growth, legislative reform, and stronger community integration. Senator Bamidele stressed the importance of supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, a sentiment echoed by Chief Mohammed.
The convergence of Chief Mohammed’s vision with Senator Bamidele’s legislative experience offers hope for Ondo North. This synergy between grassroots ambition and seasoned mentorship points to a promising future for the district’s representation in the Senate. With ATM’s drive and the guidance of leaders like Senator Bamidele, Ondo North is positioned for progress and transformative governance.
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2027 Ondo North Senate: ATM secures Backing of Monarchs, Chiefs
APC Senatorial aspirant for Ondo North, Abdul Tunji Mohammed, popularly known as ATM, received a resounding endorsement on Thursday during a high-profile visit to Ikare-Akoko.
The endorsement came from the Olukare of Ikare, His Royal Majesty Oba Akadiri Momoh IV, the Owa Ale of Ikare, His Royal Majesty Oba Adeleke Adedoyin, and the Ikare Council of Chiefs, who described ATM as a credible son of the soil with the capacity to represent Ondo North effectively at the Senate.
Speaking at the palace, the Olukare commended ATM for his consistent engagement with the people and his track record in business and community development. “We have watched your contributions to Ondo North over the years. You are one of us, and we believe you have the experience and character to speak for our people in Abuja,” the monarch said.
The Owa Ale, in his remarks, stressed the need for unity and quality representation. He urge him to continue the help to the people at home that he’s doing. He urged other stakeholders to support aspirants with proven commitment to the district’s progress, noting that Ikare and Akoko land require strong voices at the National Assembly.
In his response, Abdul Tunji Mohammed thanked the monarchs and chiefs for their blessings and trust. He reaffirmed his commitment to prioritize infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and agricultural development if elected.
“Ikare is central to Ondo North, and your support strengthens my resolve to serve with integrity and results. I will not betray this trust. My campaign will remain issue-based, and my representation will reflect the hopes of our people,” ATM stated.
The visit was marked by prayers, cultural displays, and solidarity from party leaders, youth, and women groups across Ikare-Akoko.
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