Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has cautioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) regarding procedural lapses in a case involving Senator Andy Uba and two others accused of a N400 million fraud. The caution came during a hearing on Thursday, where the IGP’s counsel, M.C. Anthony, sought an order for substituted service of the charges on Uba and the co-defendants.
The case centers on allegations that Uba and others conspired to fraudulently obtain N400 million from George Uboh by falsely claiming they could secure a Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Managing Director position for a willing payer.
Justice Ekwo questioned Anthony’s reliance on civil procedure rules for a criminal matter and advised him to base his motion on the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015. He emphasized the need for the prosecution to follow proper legal procedures and adjourned the hearing to February 18, 2025, for further consideration of the ex-parte motion.
The defendants are accused of violating sections of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006. Despite being granted administrative bail, the prosecution claimed the defendants have evaded service and hindered court proceedings, prompting the request for substituted service.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in enforcing anti-fraud laws and ensuring due process in high-profile criminal cases.