Rita Odafe
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Legal Permission Granted for Medical Trip
Darius Ishaku, the ex-governor of Taraba State, has received court authorization to travel to Arjam, United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a routine medical examination. This decision was made on Wednesday, January 29, by Justice Sylvanus Oriji of the Federal Capital Territory High Court after considering a motion presented by Ishaku’s lawyer, Paul Ogbole SAN.
Ishaku is currently facing legal action from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alongside former Permanent Secretary Bello Yero. They are being prosecuted on charges including conspiracy and misappropriation of a substantial amount of public funds, estimated at N27 billion.
In court, Ogbole cited Sections 6 (6) and 41 (1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to support his request for the trip, highlighting that Ishaku’s health was worsening and urging the court for approval.
The prosecution, represented by Rotimi Oyedepo SAN, raised concerns regarding the unspecified length of Ishaku’s stay in the UAE, emphasizing that this detail needed clarification for the court.
After reviewing the arguments, Justice Oriji noted that part of the bail conditions imposed on Ishaku required him to obtain permission before traveling outside Nigeria. Consequently, the request was granted.
The judge has scheduled the next hearing for March 17.
Evidence Presented in Court
During the proceedings, the judge allowed the introduction of two notebooks containing eleven documents as evidence, following objections from Ishaku’s counsel, which were ultimately overruled. The notebooks were presented by Ismail Oluwadamilare Lawal, a former assistant to Ishaku.
Lawal testified that he received cash from various individuals at Ishaku’s request, detailing names like Mr. Chindo Audu and Mr. Victor Comlavi, who were individuals connected to Ishaku but not state employees. He indicated that he was directed to obtain funds as necessary.
Quoting from one of the admitted notebooks, Lawal stated that he made necessary payments as instructed by Ishaku, ensuring confirmation of each transaction with the recipients. He asserted, “No one has complained about my payments,” adding that Ishaku would mark documents with approval once the payments were made.
Lawal also shared details about payments made to Ishaku’s personal staff, including their monthly salaries and utility bills related to Ishaku’s residence in Takum. He detailed specific amounts paid to staff and for services, demonstrating his role in managing financial matters at the direction of his former employer.
