The trial of Chukwunyere Anamekwe Nwabuoku, former Acting Accountant General of the Federation, commenced on January 31, 2025, before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja. Nwabuoku faces a nine-count amended charge of money laundering amounting to N868,465,000, allegedly diverted from the Federal Ministry of Defence during his tenure as Director of Finance and Accounts between 2019 and 2021.
During the proceedings, Prosecution Witness 1, Eucharia Ezeobi, a Zenith Bank official, testified that she opened corporate accounts for four companies—Temeeo Synergy Concept Limited, Turge Global Investment Limited, Laptev Bridge Limited, and Arafura Transnational Afro Limited—ostensibly for contractors associated with the Ministry of Defence. Ezeobi revealed that substantial funds were withdrawn in cash from these accounts, with the defendant allegedly benefiting from these transactions. The account opening documents were presented in court as Exhibits PWB.
Felix Nweke, the second prosecution witness and former Deputy Director of Accounts and Expenditure at the Ministry of Defence, corroborated Ezeobi’s testimony. Nweke stated that Nwabuoku instructed him to open the aforementioned company accounts and facilitated the transfer of funds from the Ministry’s Security Operation Account into these accounts. He further testified that the funds were predominantly withdrawn in cash and handed over to Nwabuoku. Under cross-examination, Nweke confirmed that he acted solely on Nwabuoku’s instructions, as his superior in the Ministry’s hierarchy.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleges that Nwabuoku orchestrated the diversion of funds through these companies, with one Gideon Joseph identified as a signatory to the accounts. The EFCC contends that the illicit funds were subsequently laundered and utilized for personal gain.
In response to the charges, Nwabuoku sought to negotiate a plea bargain with the EFCC. However, the initial attempt at a settlement was unsuccessful. At a subsequent hearing on February 26, 2025, Nwabuoku requested additional time to explore a potential plea agreement. The prosecution indicated its willingness to consider the request, provided it serves the interests of justice. Justice Omotosho adjourned the case until March 13, 2025, for either a report on the settlement or the continuation of the trial.
The EFCC’s investigation into the alleged diversion of funds underscores its commitment to combating corruption and ensuring accountability within public institutions. The outcome of this trial will be closely monitored as a significant precedent in the fight against financial misconduct in Nigeria’s public sector.
