Dariye’s lawyer seeks withdrawal from trial

Lead counsel to former Plateau State governor, Joshua Dariye has applied to an FCT High Court sitting in Gudu to withdraw from representing the exgovernor in the ongoing N1.162billion fraud trial.

The counsel, Garba Pwul (SAN) yesterday told the court that having reviewed proceedings in the matter; he wishes to announce his withdrawal from further appearance.

He added that there are two appeals against the last rulings of the court and subject to the instruction of Dariye, he might represent him at the Appeal Court. He told journalists after proceedings that a “stay of proceedings” has also been filed.

Prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) objected to the application stating that a counsel has a responsibility not only to his client but most importantly to the court. He said Section 349(8) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) provided that where a counsel wishes to withdraw, such counsel must notify the Court not less than three days before hearing and the notification must be served on all parties.

“Being aware that the matter was slated for hearing today (yesterday) since March 6, the counsel ought to do the needful. I urge the Court to uphold the law and not fall into the antics of the defendant (Dariye)”, he said.

After Pwul confirmed to the Court that he at his own volition decided to withdraw and not that Dariye disengaged him, the trial judge, Justice Adebukola Banjoko adjourned to March 20 for ruling on the application and continuation of trial.