Federal High Court rules EFCC proved money laundering charges beyond reasonable doubt
By A1 News International
Abuja, Nigeria — March 23, 2026
A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted and sentenced former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation, Chukwunyere Nwabuoku, to 72 years imprisonment over ₦868 million fraud. The court held that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) established the charges beyond reasonable doubt, reinforcing Nigeria’s anti-corruption enforcement efforts.
What Happened
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court delivered the judgment on Tuesday, convicting Nwabuoku on all nine counts bordering on money laundering.
The court sentenced him to eight years imprisonment on each count, amounting to a cumulative 72 years. However, the judge ruled that the sentences would run concurrently, effectively reducing the time to be served.
Justice Omotosho held that the EFCC successfully proved its case, finding the defendant guilty of diverting public funds during his tenure as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Defence.
Court Findings and Evidence
In his ruling, the judge described the offence as “appalling,” noting that the diverted funds were meant for critical security and defence operations.
The court also relied on testimony from prosecution witnesses, including evidence that Nwabuoku voluntarily refunded over ₦200 million during the investigation. The defence did not challenge this claim.
Justice Omotosho commended the EFCC for what he described as a meticulous and detailed prosecution, emphasizing the strength of documentary and testimonial evidence presented.
Background to the Case
Nwabuoku was arraigned on January 15, 2025, on a nine-count amended charge related to money laundering and illegal diversion of public funds.
He was granted bail in the sum of ₦500 million with two sureties in like sum pending trial. The charges stemmed from his role in the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021, where he was accused of misappropriating funds allocated for national security.
Why It Matters
The conviction marks a significant development in Nigeria’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign, particularly within high-level public finance management.
It underscores the judiciary’s willingness to uphold accountability in cases involving misuse of funds earmarked for critical national priorities such as defence and security.
This development raises fresh concerns about accountability and oversight in Nigeria’s public institutions.
![Nigerian military prepares to cordon the area where a man was killed by suspected rebel fighters during an attack around the Polo area of Maiduguri, Nigeria, in 2019 [File: Afolabi Sotunde/Reuters]](https://a1news.com.ng/wp/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nigeria-military-on-patrol.webp)
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