We’ve enough evidence to jail you, EFCC tells Obiano
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss an application by the immediate past Governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano, seeking to quash the nine-count money laundering charge against him.
In a counter-affidavit filed before the court, the anti-graft agency asserted that it had amassed sufficient evidence to secure Obiano's conviction. The EFCC argued that the proof of evidence presented established a prima facie case justifying the defendant's trial.
Contrary to Obiano's claim that his trial should be halted due to the Anambra state government's denial of missing funds, the EFCC contended that the state government's involvement was irrelevant since it was not a defendant in the case.
The agency also refuted allegations of malice, stating that the charges were brought in good faith and after a thorough investigation.
During the court proceedings, Obiano's counsel urged the court to grant his client's request, while the prosecution counsel urged dismissal of the application, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations.
After hearing arguments from both sides, trial Justice Inyang Ekwo adjourned the matter until April 18 for ruling.
Obiano, who served as Anambra State governor from March 2014 to March 2022, faces charges of looting over N4 billion from the state treasury.
The EFCC alleges that funds were siphoned from the state's Security Vote Account during his tenure. Obiano pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on bail, with his passport seized as part of the bail conditions.
The former governor filed a motion contesting the court's jurisdiction to try him over offenses allegedly committed in Anambra State.
The charges against him include allegations of indirectly transferring funds for unrelated purposes, contrary to the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act.
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