Court Adjourns Sule Lamido's N1.35bn Fraud Trial

The trial of former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido and his son, Aminu Mustapha Lamido, concerning allegations of N1.35 billion fraud, was adjourned by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The adjournment occurred on Monday due to the absence of their lead defense counsel, Joe Agi, SAN, who cited medical issues involving surgery.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged the Lamidos with 37 counts, including money laundering and kickbacks related to fictitious contract awards during Lamido's tenure as governor from 2007 to 2015. Prosecuting counsel Chile Okoroma, SAN, argued that a member of the defense team should have appeared to ensure the trial proceeded, especially given the case's long-standing status since 2015.

The presiding judge, Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu, noted her travel commitments and subsequently ruled in favor of the prosecution, leading to the adjournment. The next hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, July 21, 2026.