It was a dramatic affair in court on Monday evening as Olisa Metuh faced the judge over his diversion of N400million meant to beef up Nigeria’s security. Metuh, a former Spokesperson of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP had diverted the money from the office of the then, National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki. Metuh was brought to court in an ambulance as his failing health took centre stage again.
His attorneys, led by Mr. Ikpeazu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria had filed an application seeking a bail in order for the PDP Chieftain to travel abroad for better medical care over a spinal cord problem. This was however refused by presiding judge, Justice Okon Abang who queried the medical records provided by a physician from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University. Another medical record was obtained by Metuh’s attorneys from a medical doctor based in London but this was also refused by the judge who claimed there was no appeal from Metuh when the court ruled initially.
Mr. Metuh had collapsed earlier as he made his way to the dock, despite precautionary advice given by the judge who noticed his wobbly step. Justice Abang advised Metuh to remain on his seat while fielding questions from him and the prosecution counsel, an advice he never heeded to.
The judge subsequently sought for a report of what had happened from three court officials who gave him a brief that he collapsed as a result of his insistence on being in the dock despite the judge’s warning.
A medical doctor was asked to attend to Mr. Metuh while proceedings continued. Defence counsel, Etiaba said he would like to put his questioning on hold as he grew wary of what the proceeding was turning into. Justice Abang frowned at this and aired his displeasure to the prosecution and defence counsels for their purposeless pursuit of the case. He further threatened to discharge Mr. Metuh since his prosecution was not given utmost attention and seriousness as it should.
Reporting: Unclad News Press
UNCLAD NEWS PRESS 