Judge Criticizes Maina Over Continuous Trial Delays

Judge Abubakar Kutigi of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Asokoro expressed frustration over the endless delays in the trial of Abdulrasheed Maina, the former chairman of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team. Maina is facing nine counts of economic and financial crimes, specifically related to the alleged receipt of stolen funds amounting to ₦738,612,019.99.

The trial has been stalled due to an application from Maina's new counsel, Emmanuel Wuyi, who requested a postponement. Judge Kutigi warned Maina to appear and defend against the charges, emphasizing the need for clarity regarding the defense's strategy.

The prosecution, represented by Francis Usani from the EFCC, opposed the application for delay. The court granted the defense's request to withdraw the motion to stay proceedings, setting the next trial date for February 26, 2026, to continue the trial within the trial.