Asset Declaration: FG amends charge against Orubebe

The Federal Government has amended its charge against former Minister of Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe before the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT).

Orubebe had earlier been arraigned at the CCT, by the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) in October 8, 2015, on a four count charge for alleged false declaration of assets, while he was Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.

He was however re-arraigned by the CCB on an amended charge which was reduced to a one count, relating to an alleged failure of Orubebe to declare his landed property located at Asokoro area, of the Federal Capital Territory, while he was head of the Ministry.

He expectedly pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him.

Mohammed Diri, Director of Public Prosecution, office of the Attorney General, sought the court for an adjournment since his witnesses were not in court.

A prayer to which Solekeowe Larry, defence counsel objected to, stressing that its cost of attending the hearing should be compensated for.

Chairman of the CCT, Umar Danladi subsequently averred that he would take note to enforce a fee, if such an application is repeated by the prosecution, upon which the matter was adjourned to April 7, 2016 for hearing.

SEYI ANJORIN