Rep Member Rejects Lawyer In Court

There was drama in court yesterday over a criminal case filed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (OAGF) against  a member of the House of Representatives, Hon Amobi Godwin Ogah.

Tension rose between the Abia federal lawmaker and his legal team during proceedings before the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja, where a case of alleged forgery is being heard.

When the matter came up before Justice Halilu Yusuf, Ogah, who represents the Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, rejected the appearance of Bar V.C. Ifacho from Chambers of former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr Kanu Agabi (SAN).

The development added a dramatic dimension to a case that has already attracted considerable attention because of the allegations contained in the criminal charge against the federal lawmaker and his previous remand in Kuje Prison following a court order.

During the courtroom episode, Ogah  faulted the legal representation being provided by  Agabi to represent him in the case on the grounds that the case is a serious matter.

Ogah also cited financial resources he had committed to his legal representation and expressed dissatisfaction that a junior lawyer appeared in court on behalf of the ex-AGF to handle sensitive matter.

The federal lawmaker further boasted about his level of influence which he claimed to enjoy within the Nigerian judicial and political establishment.

The latest development followed charge No. CR/650/2024 in which the federal government accused the lawmaker of offences relating to alleged false declaration, perjury and injurious falsehood involving former Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejeocha.

The prosecution’s case arose from statements allegedly contained in an affidavit sworn to by Ogah in May 2023.