EFCC Slams Delay Tactics in Uyo Fraud Trials

​The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has voiced strong frustration over what it describes as deliberate delay tactics hindering the prosecution of high-profile financial crimes at the Federal High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

​Presided over by Justice Maurine A. Onyetenu, these proceedings involve two separate cases of significant financial impropriety that have recently hit roadblocks.

​Allegations of Stalling in Adekunle’s Trial

​During the July 10, 2026, session, the prosecution expressed exasperation regarding the trial of Musa Saliu Adekunle, who faces a five-count charge for money laundering, conspiracy, and obtaining property by false pretenses.

​The defense counsel, I. G. Udofia, requested to halt the cross-examination of the third prosecution witness, Deputy Superintendent of the EFCC, Mubarak Isah, claiming he required more time to familiarize himself with the case file, citing his recent appointment. Prosecution counsel Joshua Abolarin strongly countered this, noting that this marks the third instance of the defendant changing legal counsel—a move he characterized as a transparent attempt to stall proceedings and waste the court’s time.

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​When the defense attempted to pivot to a bail application, Justice Onyetenu firmly shut down the request, noting that there was already an existing ruling on the matter. The court advised the defense to seek redress at the Court of Appeal if they were dissatisfied with the current status of the bail application. The trial has been adjourned until September 24, 2026.

​Court Order on Thompson’s Medical Expenses

​In a separate development, Victor Ekpong Thompson, who is being prosecuted for an alleged $525,276 fraud, was absent from court on July 10. Thompson is accused of forging mining documents to defraud a group of United States investors, including Tammy Jensen and Kenneth Blad.

​Prosecution counsel Ifeyinwa Azegbeobor moved to have the defendant moved to a correctional facility, supported by a fifteen-page affidavit. While defense counsel Nsikak Akai argued for his client to remain at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment, Justice Onyetenu issued a decisive ruling.

​The court granted the application for the defendant to be transferred but clarified that the EFCC would no longer shoulder his medical bills. The judge ruled that if the defense insists on medical treatment at the hospital, they must assume full responsibility for the costs, while the commission remains responsible only for the security required to keep the defendant within the facility. The case is set to resume with hearings on September 22, 24, and 29, 2026.

​These developments highlight the EFCC’s intensifying efforts to ensure that legal maneuvers and medical claims do not obstruct the path to justice in Akwa Ibom State.