A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has issued a warrant for the arrest of Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, for failing to heed its summon.
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The EFCC had, in December previous year, arraigned Akpobolokemi and others on two separate charges before the Federal High Court in Lagos.
“In view of the absence of the first accused (Tompolo) despite being served, may we come under Section 141 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 to apply for a warrant of arrest”. In a country with laws?
“It’s left to the law enforcement agencies to effect his arrest”.
Others are companies; Global West Vessel, Odimiri Electrical Ltd, Boloboere Ltd. and Destre Ltd.
Meanwhile, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, has distanced himself from the Traditional Council of Nigeria, which the EFCC named as one of the beneficiaries of the $2.1bn arms procurement fund.
However, the court has ordered the former commander of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, to appear before it or be compelled to do so.
Tompolo and Director General of Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Patrick Akpobolokemi were to be arraigned on a 40 count charge of alleged money laundering, conspiracy, stealing and diversion of funds today.
However, the ex-militant, while reacting to the news, said he is yet to receive the summons of the court.
They were all in court and represented by counsel, except Tompolo.
Tompolo had earlier been invited for questioning by the EFCC.
His lawyer made a subtle attempt to bring the incident to Mr. Buba’s attention but the judge said he only knew about what transpired in his court room. “Whenever they want his (Mr. Akpobolokemi) presence, they can let me know”.
Akpolobokemi and other accused persons have, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Judge Buba adjourned the case until February 8.
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“I have not remanded anybody”. If you came from home, go back to your home.
