The Nigerian government has modified the charges filed against Ladi Adebutu, the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, and nine others before a State High Court in Abeokuta.
The charges were revised on Tuesday to include Adebutu, who was absent during the initial arraignment in July 2023. The case revolves around allegations of financial inducement of voters during the 18th March governorship and state assembly election.
In the suit with case no: AB/10c/2023 (FRN Vs Adebutu &Ors), the government alleges that Adebutu ordered the issuance of 200,000 preloaded ATM verve cards worth N10,000 each through his bank, distributing them across the state on election day to sway voters.
During the hearing, Counsel to the Federal Government, Rotimi Jacobs, informed the court of the amended charges, which were granted by the presiding judge, Abiodun Akinyemi.
Adebutu and six other defendants present in court pleaded not guilty to the charges, with Adebutu’s counsel, Goody Uche, requesting bail on self-recognizance, citing Adebutu’s voluntary appearance and recent service of the charge sheet.
Justice Akinyemi granted Adebutu bail in the sum of N1 million and one surety, adjourning the case till the next day for trial.
Speaking to reporters, the FG’s Counsel confirmed Adebutu’s voluntary appearance, while Uche emphasized his client’s readiness for trial, dispelling speculations of evasion.
Uche clarified that the case does not involve money laundering when questioned by reporters.
