EFCC’s Bombshell: Ibori Was Convicted In London

The EFCC has opposed the bail applicaton by former Delta State governor, James Onanefe Ibori, on the grounds that he may jump bail. Counsel to EFCC, Rotimi Jacobs, in his argument, pointed out that the available evidence before the anti-graft agency proved that Ibori was an ex-convict and also that the crimes committed are economic crimes that are not bailable.

He also argued that Ibori is in a positon to intefere with the course of justice, using the powers that he and his band of militants had acquired.

Jacobs further said the EFCC would pursue the case to the letter and ensure that justice is done. He also said the agency is ready to furnish the court with all relevant evidence to prove that Ibori is guilty of all offences brought before the court.

Though Jacobs admitted the right and discretion of the court to grant Ibori bail, he urged it to consider the personality of Ibori, who is very influential.

However, counsel to Ibori, Joseph Daudu, disagreed with the EFCC’s counsel’s views against the bail application.

Daudu explained that the ex-convict being referred to is one James Obori and not James Onanefe Ibori, his client.

He supported his arguement with Section 225(3) of the Evidence Act in respect of No Certificate of Conviction and fingerprint presented from UK identifying Ibori as the ex-convict.

Daudu assured Ibori won’t jump bail and urged the court to grant their prayer, on the grounds that he needs to prepare for the defence of the charges brought against his client. He added that the ex-governor’s health is fast deteriorating.

Last week the presiding judge of a Federal High Court in Kaduna, Justice Muhammed Lawal Shaubu, rejected the bail application of Ibori’s counsel, Mr. Joseph Daudu, SAN.

Justice Shuabu, submitted that the entire process of justice must be followed to ensure that the case is given speedy hearing.

The judge added that the issue of a new affidavit from the accused person needs to be properly looked into by the EFCC counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs.

Earlier in his argument, Jacobs had said the accused was an ex-convict and that he had mobilised some militants against some EFCC operatives while in court at the last sitting on 17 December.

Ibori, who is facing a 139-count charge of corruption and money laundering brought against him by the EFCC, has been in prison since 17 December last year.