By Akin Kuponiyi
A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has adjourned until July 10, 2026, for the continuation of the trial of Lagos businessman, Godspower Phillip Odiete, who is facing charges over the alleged importation of 13.5 kilogrammes of cannabis.
Odiete is being prosecuted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency on a two-count charge bordering on conspiracy and unlawful importation of cannabis.
At the resumed hearing, the NDLEA prosecuting counsel, Barrister F.S. Ajagu, informed the court after leading the second prosecution witness in evidence that the agency intended to call four additional witnesses before closing its case.
Counsel to the defendant, Chief Dennis Warri, did not object to the application.
Following the submissions, the trial judge, Justice Daniel Osiagor, adjourned the matter until July 10 for continuation of trial proceedings.
According to the charge filed by NDLEA Senior Prosecuting Counsel, Barrister Adekunle Adebajo, the defendant allegedly conspired with two persons identified as Victor Addah and Ejimnkoye Livinus, who are currently at large, to import the banned substance into the country.
The prosecution alleged that the offence was committed on May 17, 2024, at Tin Can Island Port.
The first count accused Odiete of conspiring with the two suspects to import 13.5 kilogrammes of Cannabis Indica, described by the prosecution as a narcotic substance similar to cocaine, heroin and LSD.
The second count alleged that the businessman unlawfully imported the same quantity of Cannabis Indica into Nigeria without lawful authority.
The offences are said to contravene Sections 14(b) and 11(a) of the NDLEA Act, Cap N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
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