The ongoing corruption trial of the former Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Dibu Ojerinde, suffered a fresh setback today, Wednesday, 28 January 2026, as the absence of defense counsel stalled proceedings.
The case, which is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), was scheduled for a continuation of the hearing before the Federal High Court in Abuja. However, the courtroom was met with an empty defence bench, forcing the presiding judge to adjourn the matter yet again.
This is not the first time the high-profile case has faced delays. Today’s postponement was triggered by a missing defense team. Neither the lead defense counsel nor any representative for Professor Ojerinde was present in court when the case was called.
The prosecution expressed frustration, noting that they had not received any official notification or “letter of excuse” explaining the legal team’s absence.
The presiding judge expressed dissatisfaction with the delay, warning that the court would not tolerate “frivolous adjournments” that hinder the swift administration of justice in a case involving significant public funds.
Professor Ojerinde, who served as JAMB Registrar between 2007 and 2016, is facing multiple charges related to:
Diversion of Public Funds: Allegations involving the diversion of over N5 billion during his tenure at JAMB and the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Money Laundering: The ICPC claims the former registrar used front companies and “ghost” accounts to siphon and launder government money.
Asset Forfeiture: The court has previously ordered the temporary forfeiture of numerous properties, filling stations, and schools linked to Ojerinde across the country.
