Saraki Gets Relieve As Supreme Court Orders CCT To Suspend Trial

Posted by African Examiner Latest Headlines, News Thursday, November 12th, 2015

Senate President, Bukola Saraki Thursday was relieved as the Supreme court ruled that the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), should await its determination on the appeal by Saraki before it.

The National Assembly (NASS) Chairman, has approached the apex court about two weeks ago, when it failed for the second time, to stop the CCT from hearing the case of alleged false assets declaration and 13 other criminal charges against him.

Chairman of the five-man Supreme Court jurists, Justice John Fabiyi ruled that the CCT should wait for the Supreme court to determine Saraki’s appeal, before it proceeds.

Justice Fabiyi held that further proceeding at the CCT should be stayed, pending the hearing and determination of the appeal, adding that the next hearing date would be communicated to all the parties.

Saraki’s appeal was on two grounds, including the grouse that the CCT composition did not align with the constitution, as well as lack jurisdiction to adjudicate on criminal charges.

It would be recalled that argument ensued last Thursday, between Saraki’s team of lawyers and CCT on whether the court could proceed on the trial, despite that the same matter is still pending before the apex court. This prompted his Counsels to stage a walk out of the court. The Lawyers described the CCT Chairman’s decision as “judicial rascality”.

Justice Umar later gave Saraki 11 days to reconcile with his lawyers or get another team.

Following last Thursday friction at the apex court, Saraki’s new Counsels approached Lagos High Court last Friday, to appeal against CCT decision, but the suit was thrown out on lack of jurisdiction.