The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an arrest warrant for Hathiramani Ranesh, Managing Director of Dana Air.
This follows his failure to appear before the court for a trial regarding alleged financial misconduct involving N1.3 billion.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu, presiding over the case, ordered the arrest on Monday in response to an application from the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi.
The AGF’s case, which includes six charges, names both Dana Group PLC and Dana Steel Limited as co-defendants. This trial comes after an October 10 hearing where Mojisola Okeya, representing the AGF, formally requested Ranesh’s arrest due to his absence in court for the arraignment.
During Monday’s session, Judge Egwuatu questioned Ranesh’s lawyer, Ademola Bello, on his client’s absence, asking, “Why are the defendants absent?”
Bello explained that Ranesh was out of the country and highlighted that the other defendants are legal entities under his management. Bello also raised concerns about jurisdictional issues that he argued should be resolved before proceeding with the trial.
Justice Egwuatu, however, expressed frustration, remarking, “Are we playing here? Where is the respect for the court when the people you are defending are not in court?” He reminded the court of its right to require the defendant’s appearance.
Citing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, Egwuatu declared that the arrest warrant would ensure Ranesh is present for the next court date on January 13, 2025.
“The 1st defendant is bound to appear before the court and if he does not, the court can issue a warrant for his arrest.
“Accordingly, relying on the said provision, I hereby issue a warrant of arrest for the arrest of the 1st defendant.
“The defendant shall appear before this court on January 13, 2025, before any objection can be taken,” Egwuatu said.
