Illegal mining: Eight Chinese nationals learned their fate July 13

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has set July 13 for ruling on the trial of eight Chinese nationals and two others over alleged illegal mining.

The judge set the date for Tuesday after the prosecutor, Adeola Adedipe (SAN), and the defense, Oladimeji Ekengba, delivered their final written addresses and urged the court to grant their prayers.

Ekengba, on receiving his court documents, said apart from their final written speeches, the defense also filed answers based on the law in reaction to the prosecution proceedings.

The lawyer, who said that a reply on the points of law had been filed on May 11, urged the court to acquit and acquit the defendants of the charges.

Adeola, in his final written speech, said the application was filed on May 6.

READ ALSO: Court postpones trial of 8 Chinese citizens for illegal mining until April 21

“We accept and urge Your Excellency to punish the defendants accordingly,” the senior lawyer prayed.

The Federal Government charged the defendants with three counts of illegal mining.

The Chinese nationals are – Shen Yongchan, Mo Baixian, Xiao Bin, Huang Xu Fa, Ma Bingli, Yang Jian, Le Peiyin and Que Wenyong.

Others are – Hiyk Edward Desmond, a Nigerian and Wanda Quarry Company Limited.