The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Anamekwe Nnabuoku, in the sum of N500 million over an alleged N1.96 billion fraud.
Delivering the ruling on the bail application filed by Nnabuoku’s counsel, Isidore Udenko, Justice James Omotosho stipulated that two sureties of equal bail sum must own landed properties in Abuja. Each property must have a minimum value of N250 million.
Additionally, the court directed the sureties to submit their bank statements and three years of tax clearance certificates, which will be verified by the registrar. The trial has been adjourned until January 31.
Nnabuoku pleaded not guilty to a nine-count amended charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges were read to him in court following a request by EFCC counsel Martha Babatunde.
According to the EFCC’s amended charge, filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Ekele Iheanacho on November 27, 2024, Nnabuoku is accused of conspiring with others, including entities like Temeeo Synergy Concept Limited and Arafura Transnational Afro Limited (both reportedly at large), to convert proceeds from unlawful activities.
The offense contravenes Section 18 of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, 2011 (as amended) and is punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act.
Previously, Nnabuoku and co-defendant Felix Nweke had explored a plea bargain arrangement with the EFCC in connection with an earlier 11-count charge. However, during the most recent hearing, the EFCC, represented by Babatunde, informed the court of a revised charge listing Nnabuoku as the sole defendant, while Nweke’s name was removed.
Although Nweke appeared in court, no legal representation was present on his behalf. Justice Omotosho inquired about his lawyer, to which Nweke responded that he had contacted his counsel.
The EFCC’s updated charge was read in court, and Nnabuoku entered a plea of not guilty. His counsel subsequently moved for bail, which was opposed by the EFCC but ultimately granted by the court.
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