Former National Institute DG, Prof Hamalai Faces Arrest Following Court Order

A bench warrant has been issued by a Federal High Court in Apo, Abuja for the arrest of Professor Ladi Aisha Hamalai, the former Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies. This action comes after her repeated non-appearance in a corruption case brought against her by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Justice C. O. Oba presiding over the court ordered the arrest on Monday, April 22, 2024, due to the professor’s continuous failure to attend court proceedings.

According to the ICPC counsel, Professor Hamalai has ignored four consecutive invitations from the commission to participate in the case, despite being properly served.

The corruption allegations against Prof. Hamalai, detailed in charge number FCT/HC/CR/312/23, include the misuse of her position to benefit herself. This involved requesting N12 million for a guest house rental for her office but allegedly using the funds to purchase a property in the Gwarimpa area of Abuja.

Additionally, the former DG is accused of soliciting N29 million for the furnishing of the building intended as a government guest house.

During the court session, ICPC prosecutor Michael Adesola noted the former DG’s absence despite being served with the arraignment notice.

In response, Prof. Hamalai’s counsel, Olayemi Afolayan, cited her client’s illness as the reason for her non-attendance.

Justice Oba ruled that due to the professor’s consistent absence, ICPC should carry out the arrest and ensure her presence on the next scheduled court date.

The case has been adjourned until September 9, 2024.