The trial of the former Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Ahmed Idris, accused of embezzling approximately N109.4 billion in public funds, resumed with Idris claiming that he was deceived by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into self-incrimination.
Idris, along with three others, faced a 14-count charge before a High Court in the Federal Capital Territory.
Justice Halilu Yusuf ordered a trial-within-trial to determine the admissibility of extra-judicial statements, with Idris asserting that he made these statements under duress.
Lead counsel Chief Chris Uche argued that the EFCC promised immunity from trial if Idris implicated a former Minister of Finance and some Governors.
The defense urged the court to reject the statements, citing violations of legal provisions.
EFCC investigator Mr. Hayatudeen Suleiman refuted the allegations, presenting a video recording of an interview with the defendants.
The video allegedly captured discussions on fund distribution.
Despite unclear audio and absence of legal representation, Suleiman asserted the voluntariness of the statements.
Contradicting prior claims, Suleiman admitted no lawyer was present during the interview, and defendants were not notified before the video recording.
The judge adjourned the trial-within-trial to March 20, maintaining bail conditions for the defendants.
A previous attempt at a plea bargain deal with the EFCC had collapsed.
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