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Surety at Risk of Losing N100m Bail Bond as Defendant Evades Trial in $9.6bn P&ID Scam Case

This case highlights several important insights regarding the administration of justice and legal proceedings. Firstly, it underscores the significance of the role of sureties in the legal system, emphasizing their responsibility to ensure the appearance of defendants in court. The failure of a surety to fulfill this obligation can have serious consequences, including the forfeiture of bail bonds and potential legal liabilities.

Published

2 months ago

March 1, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

Surety at Risk of Losing N100m Bail Bond as Defendant Evades Trial in $9.6bn P&ID Scam Case

In the ongoing trial concerning the $9.6 billion Process and Industrial Development (P&ID) scam, key defendant James Nolan, a British national, and his company Goidel Resources Limited face severe allegations of money laundering amounting to $9.5 billion. The case has drawn significant attention and revolves around a controversial judgment involving P&ID and the Nigerian government.

Following a court order for Nolan’s arrest in September 2022 due to his failure to appear for trial, George Kadiri, an Igala Chief, stepped in as his surety, committing a substantial N100 million bail bond. However, Kadiri’s repeated inability to produce Nolan in court has raised concerns about the efficacy of the bail arrangement. Furthermore, The court has directed the chief to justify why his N100 million bail bond shouldn’t be forfeited to the Federal Government by March 7, 2023.

Prosecuting counsel Bala Sanga has voiced frustration over what is perceived as deliberate delaying tactics by the defence. Despite ample time granted to produce Nolan, the defence’s failure to do so has led Sanga to advocate for the forfeiture of the bail bond to the Federal Government. He argues that further extensions would only serve to undermine the judicial process.

On the other hand, defence counsel Michael Ajara has appealed for a brief adjournment. Ajara seeks time for Kadiri to submit a written application outlining the facts of the case, emphasizing the need for due process before any decision regarding the bail bond forfeiture is made.

James Nolan’s continued absence from trial proceedings, coupled with the defence’s repeated requests for extensions, has raised concerns about the integrity of the legal process surrounding the $9.5 billion money laundering allegations. Despite the prosecuting counsel’s assertions that ample time has been provided, the defence maintains its plea for leniency, citing the need for Kadiri, the surety, to present a written application before any decision on the forfeiture of the N100 million bail bond is made.

The legal consequence of this development is significant. If Kadiri fails to provide compelling reasons to justify his inability to produce Nolan, the court may order the forfeiture of the N100 million bail bond. Such a decision would have financial implications for Kadiri and could potentially impact the course of the trial. As the case progresses, the court remains vigilant, ensuring justice is served, and legal proceedings are conducted following due process.

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