The trial of former Chief Executive Officer of the National Food and Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), Hanan Abdul-Wahab, has been adjourned to September 29 and 30 following a crucial medical excuse submission by his lawyer, Godfred Yeboah Dame.
This decision follows a period of considerable scrutiny and legal maneuvering, initiated with Dame’s submission to the Accra High Court through his client. The prosecution, led by the former CEO, has challenged Dame’s explanation for his absence, asserting that no supporting medical documentation was presented at the August 12 hearing.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter, prompting Dame to formally submit the medical excuse duty through his client, effectively adjourning the trial to September 29 and 30.
At the latest hearing, Dame’s submission effectively triggered the court’s adjournment, a development stemming from prior legal challenges concerning the representation of Mr Abdul-Wahab.
The prosecution’s accusations against Mr Abdul-Wahab and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni, center around allegations of mismanagement within the National Food and Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), including charges of stealing, fraud, willful causing financial loss, abuse of public office for profit, and dishonestly receiving and money laundering. Earlier reports indicated a potential financial loss of approximately GH¢78 million.
The case has been subject to several legal developments since its commencement, notably a dismissal of a request by Dame to strike out the entire charge sheet against his client, though the court directed the prosecution to amend two counts relating to the alleged fraudulent transactions.
Mr Abdul-Wahab has also filed an application for a stay of proceedings at the Court of Appeal, as the defence continues to contest aspects of the prosecution and the trial process. The substantive trial is expected to resume on September 29 and 30, pending the parties’ return to court.
This case represents a significant shift in the legal proceedings, with the court now focusing on the ongoing challenges and potential outcomes concerning the former NAFCO CEO and his associates.
**Key Facts & Figures:**
* **Case:** Hanan Abdul-Wahab Trial
* **Defendant:** Hanan Abdul-Wahab & Wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni
* **Charges:** Allegations involving the management of NAFCO, including theft, fraud, and financial loss.
* **Alleged Amount:** Approximately GH¢78 million
* **Legal Developments:** Dismissal of the strike-out request, continued defence challenges to the prosecution’s case.
* **Court Actions:** Application for stay of proceedings at the Court of Appeal.
* **Date of Next Hearing:** September 29th and 30th
**Tags:** Hanan Abdul-Wahab, National Food and Buffer Stock Company, Legal Proceedings, Court Adjournment, Medical Excuse, Fraud, Money Laundering
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Source: MyJoyOnline
