Mallam Isa opens defence on Tuesday

Counsel for Mallam Isa, Ambrose Dery, last Wednesday prayed the Fast Track High Court trying the former Minister for Youth and Sports for allegedly stealing $46,000 belonging to the state, to grant him one week to enable his client to open his defence, reports The Daily Guide. He contended that he needed enough time to enable him bring certain witnesses to testify before the courts as Mallam Isa opens his defence.

The Director of Public Prosecutions, Osafo Sampong did not object to the request and was of the view that as the Appeal Court has asked Mallam to open his case at the High Court he would consent to the request.

The Judge, Justice Julius Ansah, an Appeal Court Judge sitting as an additional High Court Judge, however, ruled against the application submitted by Mallam Yusif Isa's counsel and instead adjourned the case to Tuesday July 3, 2001.

He said he is surprised at Mallam's application as the defence has had enough time to prepare for his defence.