EFCC re-arraigns ex-PDP chair’s son for alleged N2.2bn subsidy fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday re-arraigned Mamman Nasir Ali, son of Ahmadu Ali, ex-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Ali and Christian Taylor face a fresh trial before Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos, for alleged N2.2 billion oil subsidy fraud.

The duo and Nasaman Oil Services Limited will answer questions in an amended 49-count charge bordering on conspiracy to obtain money by false pretence.

The defendants, who pleaded “not guilty” to all the charges, were previously standing trial before Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja.

But the judge at some point withdrew from the case on health grounds, prompting reassignment to Justice Dada.

Prosecution counsel, S. K. Atteh, on Friday, asked the court for a trial date to enable the prosecution to call its witnesses and tender documents.

Kolade Obafemi, the defence counsel, prayed the court to allow the defendants to continue to enjoy the bail Justice Onigbanjo granted.

After listening to arguments, Justice Dada ordered that Ali and Taylor be remanded at the EFCC custody until bail is met.

The case resumes May 29.