The trial of Prof. Dibu Ojerinde, former Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), was stalled on Wednesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja due to the absence of legal representation for both the prosecution and the defence.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu adjourned the matter until March 25 for a report on settlement or continuation of the trial, directing that hearing notices be issued to the parties. Ojerinde and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) had previously agreed, on July 16, 2025, to settle the N5.2 billion case out of court.
Ojerinde’s lawyer, Eteya Ogana, informed the court that while the defence was expected to open its case, discussions were ongoing for an administrative settlement. ICPC’s counsel, Lesie Iheduru, corroborated this development.
The former JAMB registrar was arraigned on an 18-count charge in July 2021, accused of corruption and fraud during his tenures at NECO and JAMB. He had pleaded not guilty to all charges. Earlier, Justice Egwuatu dismissed Ojerinde’s no-case submission, ruling that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to require him to enter his defence.
The ICPC alleged that Ojerinde engaged in abuse of office and diverted N5.2 billion in government funds for personal gain. Evidence tendered accused him of conferring corrupt advantages on himself, violating the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, and the Advance Fee Fraud Act, 2006.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by anti-corruption agencies to hold public officials accountable while also exploring out-of-court settlements to resolve high-profile corruption cases.
Its unbelievable that lawyers can be absent in such a high-profile fraud trial. What is going on? This is just absurd!
I find it suious that the lawyers are conveniently absent during such a crucial trial. What are they up to?
I find it hard to believe that the absence of lawyers can stall such a high-profile fraud trial. Soing fishy going on?
I wonder if the absence of lawyers is just a coincidence or a deliberate tactic to delay the trial. What do you think?
I find it ridiculous that the trial is delayed over lawyer absence. Isnt justice supposed to be swift? What a joke!
Can we trust the legal system when hearings are constantly delayed? Justice delayed is justice denied. Its time for accountability.
I wonder how common it is for trials to get stalled due to lawyers absence. Seems like a major inconvenience for the court system.
I cant believe the lawyers didnt show up! Whats going on with this trial? Hope justice is served.
I find it shocking that lawyers are absent in such a high profile case. Justice delayed is justice denied, right?