Alleged $8.4 million fraud: Ajudua’s absence in court stalls trial again

macfranc007 February 28, 2018 Nigeria News today & Breaking news ▷ Read Nigerian newspapers 24/7 Nnenna Ibeh

- The trial of Fred Ajudua has been stalled

- Ajudua's trial was stalled at the Lagos High Court due to medical challenges faced by the defendant

- The defendant's counsel said he was evacuated to a hospital in India for an emergency

The trial of a one-time socialite and businessman, Fred Ajudua, was stalled at the Lagos state High Court on Tuesday, February 27 due to his absence.

At the hearing, Allen Agbaka, counsel to Ajudua briefed the court on the status of his client's medical health.

Agbaka while seeking a three to six-month or sine dine adjournment said the defendant was “evacuated to India on February 8, 2018, for urgent medical attention”.

He said Ajudua evacuation followed a referral to Ruby Hall Clinic in India for surgery.

Agbaka said his client had written to the court and attached his passport, visa documents, and medical reports from Ruby Hall Clinic, India.

He said Ajudua's photographs showing him on a hospital bed in India was also attached in the letter to the court.while copies of the documents had been served on the prosecution counsel, S.K. Atteh.

Responding to the plea, the prosecuting counsel told the court that the defendant's medical challenges have overtime delayed the commencement of the trial.

He further payed the court to try Ajudua in absentia since the matter had stayed long before the court.

Having listened to the plea and prayers, the judge of the matter, Justice Oyefeso, adjourned the case till May 23 and 28, 2018 for the commencement of trial.

She also ordered the defendant to be present in court at the next adjourned date.

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NAIJ.com earlier reported that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had alleged that Ajudua is a serial fraudster.

The anti-graft agency said Ajudua will face his trial despite moves in a failed attempt to dismiss the $8.4 million charges levelled against him.

The EFCC's announcement followed the dismissal of an application filed by the defendant by the Justice J.E. Oyefeso of the Lagos state High Court, Ikeja.

The EFCC stage a walk against corruption - on NAIJ.com TV