The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday re-arraigned Raymond Dokpesi, former chairman of DAAR communications Plc, before Justice John Tsoho of the federal high court, Abuja. Dokpesi was first arraigned before Justice Gabriel Kolawole of the same court in December 2015.
On Wednesday, he pleaded not-guilty to a six-count charge of criminal breach of public procurement law to the tune of N2.1bn – the same charges filed against him in December.
Rotimi Jacobs, counsel to the EFCC, had told the court there was a need for Dokpesi to take a fresh plea. “My lord, we would refer that this matter was transferred to your lordship, there is need for a fresh plea, my lord,” he said.
Wole Olanipekun, Dokpesi’s lawyer, prayed that the court should allow the accused person maintain the bail granted him by Justice Kolawole on December 14. He said his client had been of good behaviour since the bail was granted.
After listening to the counsel, the judge ruled that the bail granted Dokpesi be maintained. He adjourned the case to March 2 and 3 for commencement of trial.
Dokpesi is alleged to have received N2.1bn from Sambo Dasuki, former National Security Sdviser (NSA), for the media campaign of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The money is said to be part of funds meant for arms purchase and allegedly diverted to other purposes by the former NSA.
