ABUJA, Nigeria — A series of investigations, prosecutions and forfeiture proceedings involving former top government officials have put hundreds of billions of naira in alleged diverted public funds and assets under scrutiny, marking one of the most significant anti-corruption drives in Nigeria’s recent history.
Ahmed Idris, former accountant-general of the federation, is standing trial for allegedly diverting about N109.5 billion through fraudulent contracts and other transactions. The EFCC arrested him on May 16, 2022, and he is facing a 14-count charge alongside others. The case, which has been ongoing for several years, has exposed the extent of financial mismanagement within the federal treasury.
Former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami is being prosecuted for money laundering to the tune of N8.7 billion. In January 2026, the court ordered the interim forfeiture of 57 properties valued at N213 billion allegedly linked to him. The properties, located in prime areas across the country, are believed to have been acquired through proceeds of corruption during his tenure as the nation’s chief law officer.
Godwin Emefiele, former CBN governor, is facing multiple cases over the alleged diversion of N154.39 billion. He is also accused of arbitrarily allocating N3 trillion worth of foreign exchange without due process and unlawfully acquiring a 753-unit housing estate in Abuja. The former central bank chief has denied all allegations, but the EFCC has continued to build its case against him.
Yahaya Bello, former Kogi governor, is facing trial over N80.2 billion in alleged money laundering. The case has been particularly complex, with the former governor repeatedly challenging the court’s jurisdiction. However, the Supreme Court recently ruled that he must stand trial, paving the way for the case to proceed.
Saleh Mamman, former power minister, was recently convicted over the diversion of N33.8 billion linked to the Mambilla hydropower project and sentenced to seven years each on 10 counts. His conviction has been hailed as a major victory for the EFCC and a deterrent to other public officials who may be tempted to misappropriate public funds.
Hadi Sirika, former aviation minister, is standing trial over an alleged N8.06 billion contract fraud involving his daughter and son-in-law. The case has drawn significant public attention, as it involves allegations of nepotism and abuse of office at the highest levels of government.
Uche Nnaji, former minister of innovation, science and technology, is also set to be arraigned for certificate forgery and money laundering involving N29.5 million. The case is relatively small compared to the others, but it has nevertheless highlighted the pervasive nature of corruption in the public sector.
The investigations have been described as a significant test of Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, with the EFCC and ICPC pursuing cases against figures who wielded significant power under the Buhari administration. Civil society organisations have welcomed the prosecutions, calling on the judiciary to ensure that justice is served and that the recovered assets are used to benefit the Nigerian people. As the cases continue to unfold, the nation watches closely, hoping that the anti-corruption agencies will succeed in holding the powerful accountable. The outcome of these prosecutions will have far-reaching implications for the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
