The decade-long trial of former National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Mohammed Sambo Dasuki (rtd), on charges of unlawful possession of firearms, suffered another setback on Wednesday following the absence of a key prosecution witness.
The case, being heard at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has repeatedly stalled despite earlier directives by the presiding judge, Justice Peter Lifu, that all proceedings must be concluded within September 2025.
According to Sahara Reporter, at the resumed sitting, the first prosecution witness, Monsur Mohammed, a Department of State Services (DSS) operative, continued his cross-examination under Dasuki’s defence counsel, A. A. Usman. After the session, Justice Lifu directed the prosecution to immediately call its next witness.
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However, prosecuting counsel Chief Oladipupo Okpeseyi (SAN) informed the court that the witness scheduled to testify was not present. He initially requested a brief stand-down to establish contact, which the judge granted. But an hour later, he returned to announce that the witness could not appear because his mother was undergoing surgery at an Abuja hospital, prompting him to seek an adjournment.
Expressing dissatisfaction, Justice Lifu reminded the prosecution of his standing order mandating that the trial be concluded this month. He adjourned the matter until Thursday, September 25, with a warning that the Nigerian government must “put its house in order” and ensure the availability of its witnesses.
During cross-examination, Monsur Mohammed, who described himself as a Store Keeper with the DSS, confirmed that he had undergone training in handling arms and ammunition over his 18 years of service. However, he admitted that he did not possess a special license from the DSS to personally manage firearms.
Justice Lifu had previously fixed September 24, 25, and 26 for the prosecution to call its remaining witnesses and tender all exhibits before closing its case.
Dasuki, who served as NSA under former President Goodluck Jonathan, was first arraigned in 2015 during the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari. He faces a seven-count amended charge bordering on unlawful possession of firearms and money laundering.
His prosecution has become one of the most protracted legal battles in Nigeria, marked by repeated adjournments, prolonged detention, and controversies surrounding his bail and human rights. In 2019, after spending four years in DSS custody, he was released following sustained pressure from human rights groups and multiple court rulings declaring his detention unlawful.
The latest adjournment further extends uncertainty in a case that has cut across three successive administrations and fueled claims of political persecution. Dasuki is expected to open his defence once the Federal Government concludes the presentation of its evidence.
