An Abuja federal high court has refused an application filed by Abba Kyari, the suspended deputy commissioner of police, to strike out the criminal charges against him.

Justice Emeka Nwite premised his ruling on the fact that the court has powers under Section 245 of the Constitution of Nigeria to hear the substantive application against the suspended DCP.

Kyari had argued before the court that his arraignment by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in court was premature as the police service commission had not concluded its internal investigations, according to Channels TV.

Relying on the provisions of the constitution however, the presiding judge maintained that the enabling powers of the police service commission must give way to the supremacy of the constitution.

The police officer is before the court alongside others for offences bordering on conspiracy and dealing in illegal drugs.