We have additional 27 charges against Daniel -EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Monday in Abeokuta filed additional 27 charges against former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel, who is currently on trial for corrupt practices. Daniel had on October 6 pleaded not guilty to the 16-count charges of alleged stealing of public funds, illegal deduction of local government funds and diversion of public funds,the News Agency of Nigeria reports. The former governor also pleaded not guilty to allegations of false declaration of assets. At the resumed hearing in the case, Counsel to EFCC, Mr. Rotitmi Jacobs, who had on November 17 told the court that the commission was willing to add more to the charges, notified the court of additional 27 new charges. He told the court that he was ready to open the case, commence trial and prove the 43 charges against the former governor. In his reaction, Counsel to the accused, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, acknowledged receipt of the additional charges, but pleaded with the court to grant him more time to discuss the new charges with his client before trial could commence. He cited Sections 268 and 263 of the Criminal Code Panel and 36 (6) Paragraph B of the 1999 Constitution to support his request. “The accused person has the right to study the charges before trial can commence. It took the EFCC 30 days to file the charges, so we are also asking for time.” Osipitan argued that the additional charges were lengthy and in two volumes, saying that time would be required to adequately prepare the defence and discuss with his clients. Opposing his submission, Jacobs said the lengthy nature of the amended charges was not a sufficient reason to seek for an adjournment. He relied on sections 163 and 164 of the 1999 Constitution to argue his case, but said he would leave the decision to the discretion of the court. In his ruling, Justice Olanrewaju Mabekoje picks January 19 and January 20, 2012 for commencement of trial.