EFCC Arraigns Ex-Acting Accountant-General For ₦1.96 Billion Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday arraigned a former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Anamekwe Nwabuoku, on charges of money laundering involving ₦1.96 billion.

Nwabuoku appeared before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja and pleaded not guilty to a nine-count charge levelled against him.

Naijaonpoint understands that the charges stem from allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure.

The arraignment follows a delayed court process. In October 2024, Nwabuoku and Felix Nweke, a former deputy director in the Ministry of Defence, sought a plea bargain, requesting more time to refund the alleged stolen funds.

The counsel for the EFCC, Martha Babatunde requested that the amended charges be read in court. Following the plea, Nwabuoku’s legal team sought bail, which the prosecution initially opposed.

Despite the opposition, Justice Omotosho granted Nwabuoku bail in the sum of ₦500 million, accompanied by stringent conditions.

The bail conditions include:

– Two sureties with properties worth at least ₦250 million each within Abuja.

– Submission of the sureties’ bank statements and tax clearance for three years.

– Deposition of affidavits of means by the sureties.

Justice Omotosho directed that all documents be verified by the court’s registrar.

The court adjourned the matter for the commencement of trial, which will delve into the specifics of the allegations against Nwabuoku and his co-defendant.