The Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, barred the defence in former Power Minister Saleh Mamman’s trial from recalling a prosecution witness in the alleged N33.8 billion fraud case. Justice James Omotosho said the procedure was inconsistent with legal practice.

Defence lawyer Femi Atteh, SAN, had requested that Abdulkareem Ibrahim Ozi, previously Prosecution Witness 2, testify for the defence via subpoena. The court ruled that a witness already cross-examined cannot be recalled without proper legal reason.

Justice Omotosho discharged the witness and instructed the defence to file a formal written application if it wished to use him, instead of relying on a subpoena. The defence subsequently closed its case.

The court adjourned the matter to April 13, 2026, for the adoption of final written addresses from both parties.