The court postponed the trial of 8 Chinese nationals for illegal mining until April 21

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday, adjourned the trial of eight Chinese nationals and two others over alleged illegal mining until April 21.

The judge adjourned the case following an oral postponement request from defense lawyer, Joe Agi (SAN).

Public Prosecutor. Adeola Adedipe (SAN), did not oppose the application.

When the case was dropped, Agi informed the court that he could not continue with the trial due to the absence of their first defense witness.

The lawyer said DW-1 was unwell and unable to travel to Abuja from Lagos State.

Responding to this, Adedipe did not object to the proposal.

READ ALSO: ICPC denies requesting new detention order for El-Rufai, clarifies court process

“If it’s for medical reasons, we don’t mind, my lord,” he said.

Judge Omotosho therefore adjourned the matter to April 21 for the trial to continue.

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

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

A Nigerian citizen, Hiyk Edward Desmond and Wanda Quarry Company Limited are the other defendants.