Deputy Attorney-General challenges defence counsels’ letters, medical reports

Deputy Attorney-General Dr Justice Srem-Sai has raised concerns over letters and medical reports submitted by defence counsels in the trial of former NAFCO CEO Hannan Abdul-Wahab Aliddiba and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni. The couple are on trial for financial malfeasance related to the National School Feeding Programme. Both Aliddiba and Wuni requested to have their lawyers absent due to health issues.

Mr Aliddiba's lawyer, Mr Godfred Yeboah Dame, claimed he was unable to attend because he was unwell. Ms Wuni also made a similar request.

Dr Srem-Sai examined the letters and noted that the first accused's lawyer's letter did not contain evidence supporting the claim of illness. He pointed out that the second accused's medical report lacked a signature of a licensed medical officer. The Deputy Attorney-General argued that the defense's conduct seemed to aim at controlling the pace of the proceedings. He expressed hope for orders that would prevent the trial from stalling due to prolonged health conditions.

The court acknowledged that counsel for Aliddiba had requested an adjournment on health grounds but noted that the medical report was not on the court's docket. The trial judge directed that the medical report should be placed on the court's docket to be part of the court's record, allowing for a fair and just determination when considering adjournments.

The matter was adjourned to August 26, 2026. Aliddiba and Wuni have pleaded not guilty to 20 counts, including theft, money laundering, and fraud. They are currently on bail.