Drama unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleged that its main witness, Rabiu Musa, in the trial against Ali Bello and co-defendant Daudu Suleiman, had been intimidated and scared away from testifying.

The EFCC’s lawyer, Hannatu Kofarnaisa, made the startling allegations in court, stating that Musa had been threatened after his last appearance at the trial, leading to his absence at the recent hearing.

Despite the EFCC’s claims, the witness unexpectedly appeared in the courtroom, diffusing the tension. The presiding judge, Justice James Omotoso, prevented the defense from engaging in a dispute over the allegations.

During his testimony, the witness identified a record book of transactions seized by the EFCC and admitted to knowing Ali Bello. In cross-examination, he revealed that he relied on a literate employee to record transactions due to his own illiteracy.

The trial was adjourned until February 22 and 23 for further proceedings.

The EFCC had initially arraigned Bello and Suleiman on a 10-count charge of misappropriation and money laundering on December 15, 2022.