The Fatshimetrie court made a decision of great importance during its recent hearing. Indeed, Justice Obiora Egwuatu ordered the arrest of Ranesh following his refusal to appear in court despite several summons and judicial steps in the case against the state.
According to Section 184 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, the court has the power to issue a warrant of arrest against any accused person who refuses to appear in court. The judge noted that the first accused person is required to appear in court and his failure to appear justifies the issuance of a warrant of arrest against him. Accordingly, a warrant of arrest was issued against the first accused person and he is required to appear in court on 13th January 2025 for any objection that may arise.
The case pits the Federal Government against Ranesh over an alleged N1.3 billion fraud. The government counsel, Mojisola-Okeya Esho, asked the court to issue a warrant for Dana Air. However, the defence counsel, B. Ademola-Bello, contested the application, arguing that they had raised a preliminary objection to the jurisdiction of the court to hear the case.
The case was adjourned until January 13, 2025 for hearing. According to the prosecution, Ranesh and two others are involved in an alleged multi-million naira fraud, including the fraudulent conversion and sale of industrial generators and the misappropriation of funds meant for a specific project.
It is clear that this case is complex and raises critical issues in the fight against corruption and the due process of law. It is essential that all actors involved in this case comply with the court orders and cooperate fully with the competent authorities to shed full light on the allegations against them.
Ultimately, this case illustrates the importance of rigorous application of the law and respect for judicial procedures to ensure the integrity and transparency of the judicial system. Justice must be rendered fairly and impartially, and every individual must be held accountable for their actions before the law, regardless of their status or privilege.