The Federal High Court in Lagos continued the trial of former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose on Monday, with the 13th prosecution witness providing evidence in the N6.9 billion fraud and money laundering case.
Abubakar Madaki, a former operative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), testified before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, stating that Fayose did not personally make any of the financial transactions relevant to the charges. Fayose and his company, Spotless Investment Ltd, face prosecution by the EFCC on an 11-count indictment.
The trial had been previously delayed, with proceedings last taking place on April 25, 2024, before being adjourned to July 1 due to Justice Aneke’s official absence.
Madaki, under cross-examination by the defense, confirmed that his investigation was based on facts, including documents and statements obtained during the process. He acknowledged obtaining a statement from the late Justin Erukaa, a former Special Assistant to Fayose, and noted that no document existed showing Fayose’s acknowledgment of receiving any dollars from Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, another prosecution witness.
Madaki also testified that N4.6 billion was transferred by the former National Security Adviser to Sivan Macnamara’s Diamond Bank account. When questioned why the funds were not directly transferred to Fayose if they were meant for him, Madaki explained that cash was used to disguise the source and avoid traces.
The prosecution objected to the defense’s attempt to question the witness about an extra-judicial statement from the deceased Erukaa, leading to further legal discussions. The trial was adjourned to July 19 for continuation.
This trial is part of ongoing efforts by the EFCC to prosecute high-profile cases of corruption and money laundering in Nigeria. The outcome will be closely watched as it may have significant political and legal implications
