The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday arraigned the former Director General of SMEDAN, Bature Umar Masari, on a 17-count charge of alleged money laundering before Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja. His arraignment followed his alleged involvement in N107.7 million money laundering and proceeds of gratification.

When the charge was read to Masari, he pleaded not guilty while his lawyer, A. Magaji (SAN), urged the court to admit his client to bail. Magaji, who came by way of oral application, argued that his client is entitled to bail and urged the court to grant him temporary freedom. Prosecution counsel, Ekele Ihenacho, opposed the oral application by the senior advocate. According to the prosecution counsel, there is the need for the senior advocate to place material facts on behalf of his client before the court, saying that the development will enable the judge to have an informed opinion on the matter.

Having listened to the arguments of Magaji and Ihenacho, Justice Abang adjourned the matter till Friday, April 12, 2019 for ruling on bail application. The judge later ordered the ex-SMEDAN DG to be remanded in Kuje Prison.