Alleged N4 billion fraud: Court Gives New Date For Ex-Governor Trial
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the trial of former Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano, over alleged N4 billion money laundering to November 25, 2025.
The case, which appeared on Thursday’s cause list, was postponed after the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, rose from the bench following the delivery of three judgments and the handling of several other matters on the docket.
This development marks a continuation of legal proceedings initiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which arraigned Obiano on January 24, 2024, over allegations of public fund diversion. The former governor pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Background of the Case
The EFCC alleges that Obiano, during his tenure as governor, misappropriated over N1.2 billion from Anambra State’s security vote and transferred the funds to a private company unconnected with government activities—an offense under the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act.
Security votes are monthly allocations provided to Nigerian states for security and emergency needs. The EFCC contends that its investigation into the alleged financial misconduct extended beyond the security vote to include offenses such as stealing, abuse of office, conspiracy, and corruption.
Legal Arguments
Obiano’s defense team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Onyechi Ikpeazu, previously filed a motion seeking to quash the charges, claiming they constituted an abuse of judicial process and lacked merit. Ikpeazu argued that no evidence proved that Obiano personally directed any disbursement of state funds.
However, Justice Inyang Ekwo ruled against the motion, affirming the EFCC’s legal authority to investigate and prosecute financial crimes, including those involving funds from the Federation Account. He held that the question of proof of evidence was not applicable at this stage of the criminal proceedings.
The judge’s ruling cleared the way for the trial to proceed.
Witness Testimony
At an earlier trial session, Ayuba Tanko, a Bureau De Change (BDC) operator, testified that he received N416 million during Obiano’s tenure through proxy arrangements. He identified Sauki Bureau De Change and Zigaziga Trading and Company Ltd as the recipient companies.
Under cross-examination by Obiano’s counsel, Tanko denied having any direct dealings with the former governor.
Adjournment
On Thursday, after concluding three rulings and several pending matters, Justice Mohammed Umar adjourned the case to November 25, 2025, for continuation of trial proceedings.
