Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has scheduled January 31, 2025, for the trial of Anamekwe Nnabuoku, the former Acting Accountant General of the Federation, who faces charges of financial fraud totaling N1.96 billion. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) made the announcement in a statement following Nnabuoku’s arraignment on January 15, 2025.
Nnabuoku was brought to court on an amended nine-count charge that includes allegations of criminal conspiracy and money laundering. His co-defendant, Felix Nweke, had earlier opted for a plea bargain.
During the court proceedings, prosecuting counsel, Martha Babatunde, informed the court that the charges had been amended and requested that they be read to the defendant. When the charges were read, Nnabuoku pleaded not guilty. The prosecution then requested a trial date and sought to have Nnabuoku remanded in the custody of the Nigeria Correctional Centre.
Defence counsel, Isidore Udenko, applied for bail on behalf of the defendant. In response, the prosecution submitted a counter-affidavit, urging the court to deny bail on the grounds that Nnabuoku posed a flight risk.
Justice Omotosho, however, granted Nnabuoku bail in the sum of N500 million, with two sureties each required to post a like amount. The sureties must own landed properties within Abuja, with a value not less than N250 million each. Additionally, the sureties must submit affidavits of means, bank statements, and tax clearance for the past three years, all of which will be verified by the court’s registrar.
The case has been adjourned to January 31, 2025, for the commencement of trial.
