IBORI APPEARS IN LONDON COURT

By NBF News

The former governor of Delta State, James Ibori, yesterday appeared at the Southwark Crown court via video link from Wandsworth Prison in London to make a plea.

Ibori faces a 25-count of money laundering, fraud and theft in London after he was extradited from the United Arab Emirates and flown to London this month.

Ibori's failure to appear in person in court was said to be on account of security concerns. The hearing lasted only a few minutes. At the instance of the prosecution, it was adjourned till June 24.

Ibori was formerly charged in London on April 16 at the City of Westminster's magistrate court. The two-time Delta State governor was slammed with 25- count of fraud, money laundering and conspiracy. Only one of the charges was read in the court yesterday.

During the session, Ibori's lawyer, Jonathan Akinsanya, did not apply for bail. Ibori was remanded and sent to Wandsworth Prison in London. Southwark Crown Court was the same venue where his accomplices were tried for similar offices. They got five years each.