The Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) has overruled a 5 count charge against former Minister of Federal Capital Territory Abuja, General Jeremia Timbut Useni, over alleged non-declaration of assets.

Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Danladi Yakubu Umar, assisted by Hon Justice Agwadza William Atedze in Abuja, struck out the five count charge on the grounds of lack of diligent prosecution.

The lead prosecuting Counsel Peter Danladi (Esq), had sorted for the Tribunal to adjourn the case sine die pending the appointment of the new Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice on the status of the case, but was opposed by the lead defence Counsel Victor O. Odjemu (Esq) on the ground that the case has suffered unusual delays for the 15 years.

‘‘I will rather pray my Lord that that this matter be struck out. This matter has lasted for 15 years in this honourable Tribunal. Striking out the case will make the accused person’s mind to be at rest that there is no pending charge against him’’, Odjemu has said.

He further contended that granting an indefinite adjournment in a case that had already lasted for 15 years would amount to further infringement on his client right of determination of the case against him within reasonable right.

In his ruling Justice Umar, held that the prosecution’s request for an adjournment was unacceptable.

“The request of the prosecuting counsel is very unacceptable and is therefore struck out. When the prosecution is ready to proceed or re-file the case, they can come back any time”, Justice Umar declared.

J.T Useni was a Lt. General in the Nigerian Army and F.C.T Minister during the Gen. Sani Abacha military junta.

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Code of Conduct Tribunal Cancels Asset Declaration charges against Useni