Ilorin, Kwara State – April 10, 2025 – The fraud trial of ex-Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and his Finance Commissioner, Ademola Banu, intensified on Thursday as prosecution witnesses presented damning testimony.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accuses them of misappropriating N5.78 billion from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).
Presiding over the case, Justice Mahmud Abdulgafar heard critical evidence that could determine the defendants’ fate.
During the session, Lanre Daibu, former Chairman of Kwara’s Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), revealed shocking details.
He testified that Banu had pressured him to release N1 billion from UBEC’s 2013 Matching Grant for salary payments.
“Banu called me, insisting the state needed urgent funds to pay workers and pensioners,” Daibu stated.
However, he emphasized that such requests required written approval to ensure transparency and repayment.
Despite promises to refund the money within two months, Daibu confirmed the loan remained unpaid before SUBEB’s dissolution.
He expressed concerns about diverting education funds, stressing UBEC’s strict usage guidelines.
To strengthen their case, prosecutors presented Exhibit 4—a letter from the Finance Ministry showing Ahmed’s approval of the transaction.
Next, Benjamin Fatigun, a retired Finance Ministry permanent secretary, corroborated Daibu’s claims.
He confirmed Ahmed authorized the loan to address salary arrears, admitting the state’s financial struggles prompted the decision.
Under cross-examination, defense lawyers challenged Fatigun’s testimony, but he stood by his account.
As public interest grows, the trial resumes on Friday, April 11, with the EFCC pushing for accountability.
This case highlights the consequences of financial mismanagement, potentially reshaping Kwara’s political landscape.
The proceedings underscore the need for transparency, as citizens await justice in this high-stakes legal battle.