Danladi Umar, chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), has ordered security operatives attached to Senate President Bukola Saraki to leave the courtroom.
Umar made this order shortly after the counsel to the prosecution, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), and counsel for the defence, Kanu Agabi, announced their appearances.
The CCT judge said that his order was for the safety of all those that were present at the tribunal.
“We have observed that some armed security agents are at the tribunal. We want such security men to stay outside,” he said.
“They should stay outside of the court hall not inside. It is for the protection of us here.”
Umar also warned against the recording of the proceedings of the tribunal.
He said that he was ready to make the trial open to all Nigerians if the parties to the case filed an application for it to broadcast.
Speaking afterwards, Kanu Agabi (SAN) Saraki’s lead counsel, urged the judge not to nurse fears because nobody would assassinate him.
“My prayer is for peace and understanding. By God’s grace, you are in that post to be instrumental. I believe harmony and love will prevail,” he said.
“That is why I always urge you not to be angry because anger is not of God, but of the devil.
“Generations to come will adore you if you are humble and humane. Nobody will assassinate you, but you should be an advocate for peace.”
