Federal Government initiates criminal prosecution on money laundering and vote buying

The Ogun State High Court in Abeokuta, under the jurisdiction of Justice Abiodun Akinyemi, has commenced the hearing of proceedings in a case brought by the Federal Government against Ladi Adebutu, the governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the March 18, 2023 Elections. The charges against Adebutu include allegations of money laundering and vote buying during the Governorship and House of Assembly Elections held in the state.

During the court session, five suspects were present, while Adebutu and four other accused individuals were reported to be at large. However, Lawyer Goddy Uche SAN announced his appearance for Adebutu, who claimed to have been on a “medical vacation” since April 2023. Chief Rotimi Jacobs SAN appeared on behalf of the prosecution.

As part of the evidence presented, fifty-two debit ATM cards bearing the name Dame Caroline Adebutu Foundation were submitted and accepted as exhibits. Additionally, a PDP polling agent tag and a motorcycle used by four of the suspects on the day of their arrest were also presented.

Two witnesses from INEC were brought forward for cross-examination, including a POS operator who claimed to earn a commission on the ten thousand Naira transactions related to the debit cards.

The hearing in the case is set to continue tomorrow, as mutually agreed by both parties involved.