The Federal High Court in Lagos has extended the remand of alleged drug kingpin Sulaimon Jimoh, also known as “Olowo Idi Ogede” or “Temo,” for another 14 days in the custody of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
According to the PUNCH, Justice Akintayo Aluko granted the extension on Friday after hearing an ex parte motion filed by the NDLEA.
The agency’s prosecution counsel, Lambert Nor, argued for the additional remand period, citing the need for more time to unravel Temo’s alleged extensive drug network.
Nor emphasized the importance of the extension, stating, “We seek this under the provisions of the Constitution, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, and the Federal High Court Civil Procedure Rules. This extension is crucial as we continue to unravel the suspect’s extensive drug network.”
The NDLEA is awaiting responses from various agencies and institutions connected to the investigation.
He further explained that preliminary investigations have revealed a broader and more sensitive network of drug activities, both domestically and internationally, that require further examination.
In support of the motion, the NDLEA submitted a 13-paragraph affidavit from Kayode Abu Ojo, a litigation officer with the agency.
The affidavit highlighted that the initial 14-day remand ordered on July 26, 2024, was disrupted due to nationwide protests and the unavailability of the suspect’s counsel, which delayed the investigation.
The affidavit stated, “The ongoing investigation has uncovered a more complex and sensitive network of drug activities, with inquiries sent to sister agencies and other relevant bodies still pending. This makes it necessary to seek additional time.”
After reviewing the submissions, Justice Aluko ruled in favor of the NDLEA’s request, stating, “The application has merit, and the order sought is hereby granted.” The court adjourned the matter to August 23, 2024, for the NDLEA to present its investigation report.
Temo, who had been a wanted figure in the drug trade for over a decade, was initially remanded on July 26, 2024. The case was first adjourned to August 9, 2024, pending the outcome of the investigation, and has now been further adjourned for an additional 14 days.
