Former NSA Dasuki to be Tried in Absentia

The Nigerian Government has resolved to continue the trial of former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), in his absence.

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The trial Judge, Justice Ahmed Mohammed said Col. Dasuki has not given a satisfactory reason to warrant his absence from the trial, therefore the trial will continue in his absence.

The Deceision of the court followed an application by the prosecutor Mr. Dipo Okpeseyi who had asked the court to either stand down the latter and order the appearance of the defendant or make an order to continue the trial in his absence.

The application had been rejected by the counsel to Dasuki who told the court that the application before the court was not properly filed and that the court ought to also give the defendant an opportunity to explain himself.

Having listened to both parties, the trial judge concluded that the application was properly filed in response to the order made by the court on April 16 and November 13, that should the former NSA not attend the trial, the prosecution is at liberty to apply for a trail in his absence.

The judge however refused to make the order requested by the prosecution, choosing instead to invoke section 352 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act to order trial in absentia since the defendant, Colonel Sambo Dasuki (rtd) has decided not to attend the trial.

He also noted that nowhere in the letter did the defendant refer to his rights being trampled by the court. He thereafter adjourned trial to December 11, 2018.