By Milcah Tanimu
The Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected a motion by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) seeking substituted service. The motion relates to the N400 million fraud case involving Andy Uba, a former senator for Anambra South.
Uba, Crystal Uba, and Benjamin Etu face a two-count charge in suit FHC/ABJ/CR/538/2024. During Thursday’s hearing, prosecution lawyer M. Anthony sought approval for substituted service. However, Justice Inyang Ekwo said the motion was incorrectly filed. It was submitted under the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019, instead of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.
“You have to go and put your house in order,” Ekwo stated. The court adjourned the case to February 18, 2025, for further hearing.
The prosecution alleged that the defendants evaded service despite being on administrative bail. A prior fundamental rights order delayed the case until it was lifted.
Six witnesses are expected to testify against Uba and the other defendants in the case.
