The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Asokoro, on Thursday threatened to revoke the bail of Abdulrasheed Maina, former chairman of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team, over repeated delays in his ongoing N738.6 million fraud trial.
Justice Abubakar Kutigi expressed frustration at the prolonged proceedings, noting that the trial had been stalled for nearly four years due to what he described as Maina’s “diverse antics.”
The judge raised concerns over the defence’s latest request for an adjournment, citing a hospital referral that did not indicate any medical need for Maina’s absence.
“I have obtained a commitment from the defence chambers to proceed with this trial with or without the defendant,” Justice Kutigi stated, effectively rejecting the adjournment application.
Following the warning, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) resumed proceedings with the 14th prosecution witness, Gogi Mohammed, an EFCC investigator.
Mohammed presented fresh evidence detailing how Maina allegedly misappropriated public funds using staff from the Office of the Head of Service of the Federation (HoSF).
The witness revealed that Maina diverted funds through fictitious contracts, allowances, and a biometric enrolment exercise for pensioners. Investigators traced several assets to his relative, Maimuna Usman, in Kaduna.
A search of her residence uncovered documents for over 30 properties, mostly in Abuja and Kaduna, allegedly acquired through Maina’s influence.
Among the properties, one in Jabi, Abuja, and another in Life Camp, Abuja, were reportedly purchased in cash for $2 million and $1.7 million, respectively.
A property on Katoru Road, Kaduna, was also bought for N100 million. The EFCC has filed for the forfeiture of these assets.
The trial, which has dragged on despite multiple adjournments, is expected to continue even in Maina’s absence.
Speaking after proceedings, legal analysts said the case underscores the challenges of prosecuting high-profile financial crimes in Nigeria, highlighting the need for stricter bail conditions and efficient judicial processes.
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