The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of former Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, in the alleged ₦3.1 billion fraud case after he and his lead counsel failed to appear in court, citing ill health.
Justice Peter Lifu adjourned the case until September 25, 2026, following a request from Suswam’s counsel, Paul Erokoro (SAN), who informed the court through a letter that both he and the first defendant could not attend proceedings due to health reasons.
At the resumed hearing on Thursday, the prosecution opposed the application, arguing that the 11-year-old trial had suffered enough delays and should proceed without further adjournment.
Lead prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), expressed surprise at the request, noting that the case had already been handled by five different judges.
“We are surprised that there is a letter from the first defendant’s counsel saying he will not be in court. I should oppose this application and urge the court to give us leave to move for the adoption of the written address, and not to seek adjournment in a case that is 11 years old and your lordship is the fifth judge to sit on the case,” Jacobs said.
Jacobs also urged the court to allow Suswam participate virtually if he was unable to attend physically.
“I would urge the court to adjourn this matter till tomorrow and ask the court to connect the defendant to Zoom even if he is at home to join the matter. My Lord, we would have closed this case more than a year ago. We have seen the first defendant attending public functions even last week. They are making a mockery of the justice system,” he added.
Counsel to the second defendant, Audu Agunga (SAN), supported the application, saying Suswam required time to recover.
Justice Lifu subsequently adjourned the case until September 25, 2026, for the adoption of final written addresses.