Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the arrest of Dana Air Managing Director, Hathiramani Ranesh, after he allegedly failed to appear for trial.
Justice Egwuatu ruled that Ranesh’s arrest was necessary, citing his repeated absence despite being served with court charges.
The ruling, in accordance with Section 184 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, allows the court to issue a warrant if a defendant refuses to appear.
The judge scheduled the next hearing for January 13, 2025.
Earlier, the Federal Government, represented by its lawyer, requested a bench warrant for Ranesh’s arrest, highlighting his continued absence.
However, Ranesh’s defence argued they had filed a preliminary objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction, which had already been served to the prosecution.
