EFCC: Four defendants arraigned over N50Mn fraud in Maiduguri

Maiduguri, Borno State – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned four individuals on Wednesday, March 19, for allegedly defrauding victims of N50 million.

Justice Muhammad Maina of the Borno State High Court presided over the case, which centers on criminal misappropriation and breach of trust.

Among them are Mohammed Kolo Nuhu, Babagana Maru, Ahmadu Sale, and Alhaji Mala Gana.

Prosecutors revealed the defendants collectively misappropriated N50,030,000, violating sections of Borno State’s Penal Code Law. The EFCC invoked Sections 308 and 309 against Nuhu, accusing him of diverting N18.9 million meant for NGO-funded projects in September 2022.

Similarly, Babagana Maru faces charges under Section 311 for allegedly embezzling N8.5 million in 2020.

The funds, provided by Imam Manu Dauda, were intended for tricycle purchases.

Meanwhile, charges against Sale and Gana remain unspecified, though both deny wrongdoing. All defendants pleaded not guilty during arraignment, prompting prosecutors to demand immediate remand.

Following their pleas, the prosecution team, led by S.O. Saka and Faruku Muhammad, urged the court to deny bail. However, defense counsel Z.M. Umaru secured conditional bail for Maru. Justice Maina approved N10 million bail with two sureties, including a relative or traditional leader. Conversely, Sale, Gana, and Nuhu await trial in Maiduguri Maximum Correctional Center.

The court adjourned proceedings to April 26, 2025, allowing time for evidence gathering. EFCC officials emphasized the adjournment ensures thorough preparation, citing the complexity of financial crimes. Meanwhile, anti-graft agencies reiterated their resolve to curb fraud, particularly in humanitarian sectors vulnerable to exploitation.

While proceedings unfold, stakeholders question delays in Nigeria’s judicial process, given the three-year trial timeline. Legal analysts argue prolonged cases undermine public trust, urging reforms to accelerate justice. Nonetheless, the EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, vowing to pursue convictions rigorously.

This case highlights rising financial crimes in Northeast Nigeria, where conflict and displacement exacerbate vulnerabilities. Authorities warn that misuse of aid funds threatens stability, demanding stricter oversight. As trials proceed, victims await restitution, hoping the judiciary delivers timely redress.

The EFCC’s prosecution underscores its intensified crackdown on corruption, aligning with national anti-graft agendas. Public scrutiny now shifts to the court, testing Nigeria’s capacity to uphold accountability in high-stakes financial crimes. For now, the defendants remain under watch, their fates hinging on evidence yet to be unveiled.

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