Court adjourns Hanan Abdul-Wahab’s trial to September 29, 30 after Dame submits medical excuse

The trial of Hanan Abdul-Wahab, former CEO of the National Food and Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), has been postponed to September 29 and 30. Her lawyer, Godfred Yeboah Dame, presented a medical excuse during the latest hearing. This comes after previous concerns regarding Dame's absence, which were raised at an earlier sitting on August 12.

At that session, Abdul-Wahab stated that his counsel was unwell and had been hospitalized. However, the prosecution disputed this, claiming that no medical evidence had been provided to support the claim at the time. The court subsequently adjourned proceedings to enable Dame to appear in person and address the issues surrounding the pending application for a stay of proceedings.

At the most recent session, Dame submitted the medical excuse through his client, leading to the adjournment. Abdul-Wahab and her husband, Faiza Seidu Wuni, are on trial for alleged offenses including theft, fraud, causing financial loss to the state, abusing public office for profit, and dishonest money laundering. The alleged sum involved is reported to be around GH¢78 million.

The case has seen various legal developments since proceedings began, including the dismissal of an application by Dame to strike out the charge sheet in July, with the court ordering the prosecution to amend two specific counts. Abdul-Wahab also informed the court about an appeal against the charges being filed at the Court of Appeal, as her defense continues to challenge certain aspects of the prosecution and trial process. The trial itself is set to resume on September 29 and 30.