…As court dismisses application to stop trial
A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the application by embattled Senate President, Bukola Saraki seeking nullification of his ongoing trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).
Saraki is standing trial for alleged false asset declaration and fraud at the CCT, since September, 2015.
Recall that the the Senate President had asked the court to put an end to his trial at the Tribunal, describing the trial as a breach of his fundamental human rights enshrined in Section Four of the 1999 constitution and an obstruction to his duties at the National Assembly.
However, the trial Judge, Abdul Kafarati, held that the CCT is a constitutional body, in the discharge of its legal obligation which should not be interfered with by a court of law.
“I find that none of the claims fall within chapter four of the constitution”
“This court cannot interfere with the proceedings before the tribunal; it cannot also interfere with the duties of the respondents which have been imposed on them by law,” said Mr. Kafarati
According to the Judg, the applicant’s claims that the CCT’s trial falls short of the constitutional requirements is “a sentimental claim that has no basis in law.”
“There are Criminal procedure laws that put in place the method of protecting the accused”
Adding, he said, “If the court grants the application, there will be conflict with the ruling of the appellate Court. I do not see the need to go to the merit of the case.”
