On Thursday, January 16, 2024, the EFCC posted a significant update on their official X (Twitter) account.
They provided details regarding the trial of Anamekwe Nnabuoku, the former Acting Accountant General of the Federation.
The post highlighted that Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, scheduled January 31, 2025, for Nnabuoku’s trial.
He faces allegations of multiple financial fraud amounting to N1.96 billion
In a recent court session on January 15, 2025, Nnabuoku was arraigned by the EFCC on an amended nine-count charge.
These charges include serious offenses such as criminal conspiracy and money laundering.
Notably, his co-defendant, Felix Nweke, opted for a plea bargain, further complicating the case.
Prosecuting counsel Martha Babatunde informed the court that the charges against Nnabuoku had been amended.
She requested the court to read the updated charges to him so he could enter his plea.
Nnabuoku responded by pleading not guilty to all charges presented.
Following the plea, the prosecution requested a trial date. They also sought to have Nnabuoku remanded in custody at the Nigeria Correctional Centre.
However, defense counsel Isidore Udenko informed the court of a bail application for his client.
In response, the prosecution presented a counter-affidavit, urging the court to deny bail on the grounds that Nnabuoku posed a flight risk.
Despite these concerns, Justice Omotosho granted bail to Nnabuoku in the sum of N500 million (Five Hundred Million Naira), requiring two sureties in a similar amount.
The judge stipulated that the sureties must own landed properties within Abuja, each valued at no less than N250 million.
Additionally, the court ordered the sureties to submit an affidavit of means.
They must also provide their bank statements and tax clearance for the past three years.
The court’s registrar will verify all these documents
The court adjourned the matter until January 31, 2025, when the trial will officially commence.
This case underscores the EFCC’s ongoing commitment to tackling financial crimes and ensuring accountability among public officials.