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‘Today I Am A Free Man,’ Ikuforiji Reacts to Acquittal
Eko Hot Blog reports that the former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, has declared himself a free man following his recent acquittal by the Federal High Court.
The court’s decision brought an end to a prolonged legal battle that spanned several years ago.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ikuforiji expressed his relief and gratitude for the court’s verdict, saying, “Today I am a free man, June 24, 2024, remains a second birthday to me because that was the day of my independence, the day I smelt freedom.”
“I am overjoyed and relieved to finally be vindicated after all these years. Justice has been served, and I can now put this chapter behind me and move forward with my life,” he added.
Ikuforiji was acquitted of allegations of money laundering and conspiracy involving over N600 million.
The charges, which were initially brought against him in 2012 by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accused him of misappropriating public funds during his tenure as Speaker from 2005 to 2015.
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In his ruling, Justice Mohammed Liman stated that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence to substantiate the charges against Ikuforiji.
The judge emphasized that the burden of proof rests on the prosecution, and in this case, it was not met.
Reacting to the judgment, Ikuforiji thanked his legal team for their unwavering support and dedication throughout the trial. “I owe a great debt of gratitude to my lawyers who worked tirelessly to ensure that the truth prevailed. Their expertise and commitment were instrumental in securing my acquittal,” he said.
Ikuforiji also extended his appreciation to his family, friends, and supporters who stood by him during the challenging period. “The unwavering support I received from my family, friends, and well-wishers has been a source of strength for me. I am grateful to everyone who believed in my innocence and stood by me,” he added.
The acquittal has sparked reactions from various quarters, with many expressing their views on the outcome. Some have hailed the judgment as a victory for justice, while others have called for a closer examination of the case and the judicial process.
As Ikuforiji celebrates his newfound freedom, he indicated his intention to focus on his personal life and future endeavours.
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