Ex-NIRSAL MD Arraigned Over Alleged Forgery: A Comprehensive Report

The former Managing Director of the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL), Aliyu Abdulhameed, was recently arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja on allegations of document forgery.

The court proceedings, which took place on March 13, 2024, at 6:47 PM, also saw Babangida Abdullahi, another individual, facing similar charges.

The duo was charged on a 10-count indictment, but they were granted administrative bail by the police earlier.

The presiding judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo, had previously set March 13 as the date for the defendants to take their plea.

As the court proceedings unfolded, prosecuting counsel Celestine Odo informed the court that the matter was ready for the defendants’ arraignment and that he was prepared to proceed.

Following the defendants’ plea of not guilty to the 10 counts, Odo requested a trial date and the defendants’ remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

Odo, who disclosed that five witnesses had been listed in the charge, stated that the prosecution would not call more than three witnesses to establish their case against the defendants.

He added that the witnesses would also tender documentary evidence during the trial.

However, the defendants’ lawyer, Akin Olujimi, applied for their bail, citing an earlier filed bail application on February 24.

He pointed out that the prosecution had not filed any counter affidavit in opposition.

In response, Justice Ekwo granted the defendants bail and adjourned the matter until May 20, with the trial scheduled to last until May 23.

The case has garnered considerable attention due to the high-profile nature of the defendants and the allegations of document forgery.

The outcome of the trial will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the Nigerian legal system and the reputation of NIRSAL.

As the trial date approaches, it remains to be seen how the prosecution will present its case and whether the defendants will be able to mount a successful defense.

The events of the trial and its eventual conclusion will undoubtedly shape the public perception of the Nigerian legal system and the accountability of its high-ranking officials.