Court Orders Fast-Track Trial for Abba Kyari's Cocaine Case

The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, has mandated the accelerated hearing of the cocaine trial involving suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari and four other police officers. The directive was issued on September 30, 2026, as Kyari and his co-defendants resumed their defence.

The trial had been adjourned indefinitely on May 20 due to Justice Nwite's recommendation for elevation to the Court of Appeal by the National Judicial Council. During the recent proceedings, Sunday Joseph, counsel for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), noted that the case could continue while awaiting the President's decision on the judge's elevation.

The defence requested time to review testimony from the second defence witness, Inspector El-John Nwonke, who had completed his evidence on March 16. The court has been adjourned until October 5 for further proceedings, with Justice Nwite emphasizing the need for a day-to-day trial until its conclusion.