The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to issue a bench warrant for the arrest of former senator Andy Uba over his alleged role in a N400 million appointment scam.
Uba, who once represented Anambra South in the Senate, has repeatedly failed to appear in court for arraignment. At Wednesday’s sitting, his lawyer, C. L. Odiniru, apologised for his absence, claiming the former lawmaker is receiving treatment in the United States.
However, prosecuting counsel Aminu Abdullahi argued that sickness had been cited as an excuse in previous hearings without any proof, and urged the court to issue the warrant.
Justice Mohammed Umar, visibly displeased with the repeated absences, warned that the court would take all necessary steps to ensure Uba appears. He adjourned the case to October 28, 2025, stressing that “this case must be heard this year.”
Uba and his co-defendant, Benjamin Etu, face charges of conspiracy and obtaining money by false pretence. They are accused of promising to secure a Niger Delta Development Commission managing director position for N400 million, a claim prosecutors say was fraudulent.
The amended two-count charge was refiled in March 2025 after being initially brought in 2024. Uba’s trial will proceed with at least six witnesses lined up to testify against him.
