The federal government has been chided by a federal high court in Abuja for not diligently prosecuting, Tukur Mamu, publisher of Desert Herald newspaper over alleged terrorism financing.

In court on Monday, April 29, prosecution counsel David Kaswe, was absent despite entering his name on the cause list, indicating his presence.

Abdul Mohammed, Mamu’s counsel, urged the court to stand down the matter to await Kaswe’s return.

Justice Inyang Ekwo who expressed surprise over the prosecution counsel's disappearance even after the case was called again after some time, said;

“I am also aware that the prosecution was in court this morning, but as to the miracle of the disappearance of the prosecution at the time this matter comes up for hearing is beyond my understanding.

“This antic of the prosecution is only being tolerated in today’s proceeding. If the prosecution demonstrates that they are not ready to prosecute this matter either diligently or expeditiously, the court will make the right decision at that point.”