The presiding judge, Mr Albert Maga, gave the order after the accused pleaded guilty to the charges with an excuse that he was on bed rest for over two weeks.

The prosecutor, PC Friday Adaji, had earlier told the court that the offence contravened the provisions of sections 31 and 322 of the Penal code.

If convicted the accused could spend up to ten years in prison or an option to pay a fine or both.

Adaji said that one Bartholomew Chukwuma of Mararaba reported the matter at the ‘A’ division Police Station, Mararaba, on Dec. 12.

“Chukwuma gave the accused his Opel Sinatra Space Wagon valued at N900, 000 on hire purchase for N2.2 million.

“ Ugwu was expected to deliver N30,000 weekly to the owner until he completes the payment and claim the vehicle.

He said the accused delivered only N240,000  and absconded with the vehicle for nine weeks until Dec.12 when he was arrested,  Adaji said.

Maga adjourned the case to Dec. 12 for ruling on bail for the accused, and ordered that he be remanded in Keffi prison.