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CCT trial: Witness denies knowledge of Saraki earning two salaries

Senator Bukola Saraki

Senator Bukola Saraki

A prosecution witness in the on-going trial of Senate President Bukola Saraki on Tuesday said that he had no knowledge that the defendant was earning double salaries.

The witness, Michael Wetkast, told the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) at the resumed hearing, in the case false declaration of assets, while being cross examined by the defence Counsel, Mr Paul Usoro (SAN).

Part of the 16-count charge before the CCT against Saraki is that he earned double salaries between 2007 and 2011.

Count 16 of the charge reads “that you, Dr Bukola Saraki while being Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria between 2007 to 2011 earned Salary from the Kwara State Government and the Federal Government”.

The witness told the tribunal that his evidence was based on the statement of account of the defendant.

“I did not investigate the Kwara State Government or its officials during my findings; I also did not speak with the state officials or with the defendant during my investigation.

“My evidence is based on my findings,” Wetkast said.

Meanwhile, one of the Counsels to the prosecution, Mr Musa Ibrahim, informed the tribunal that they might need to re-examine the witness.

According to Ibrahim, the lead prosecution counsel, Mr Rotimi Jacobs who will re-examine the witness is not on seat and that they cannot do it alone.

The Justice Umar Danladi-led tribunal Chairman adjourned possible re-examination of the witness in the matter until Jan. 11, 2017.

According to the Judge, the tribunal may not be able to continue with the matter this year because of its busy schedule.

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