The Southwark Crown Court 9 in London has fixed the sentencing of the former Governor of Delta State, James Onanefe Ibori for Tuesday. The former Governor appeared before Judge Anthony Pitts on Monday.
It was a rowdy atmosphere around the court as supporters and family members thronged the court to catch a glimpse of James Ibori. Policemen had a busy time pushing and threatening supporters who were almost going unruly.
Prosecution lawyers while closing their case told the court that there was no plea bargain and that contrary to the plea bargain story being peddled, Ibori pleaded guilty to all the ten counts of money laundering brought against him. The prosecution team rounded off by telling the court that “”he (Ibori) lived and behaved like a billionaire.
Ibori’s lawyers however seized the opportunity to enumerate some of the former Governor’s “achievements” including how he helped to negotiate the release of hostages seized by militants in the Niger Delta, thereby contributing to Nigeria’s development. The court later went on recess at 2 pm and when it resumed, the sitting was adjourned to Tuesday for the sentencing. Ibori faces up to ten years imprisonment.
Comments