The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced former Acting Accountant-General Anamekwe Nwabuoku to 72 years in prison over corruption charges.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment after finding him guilty of multiple offences.
EFCC Prosecution And Charges
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) prosecuted Nwabuoku on a nine-count amended charge involving Money laundering and Diversion of public funds, According to the EFCC, the case involved the alleged diversion of ₦868.46 million.
Funds Linked To Defence Ministry Role
Prosecutors said the offences occurred while Nwabuoku served as Director of Finance and Accounts in the Ministry of Defence.
The alleged diversion took place between 2019 and 2021.
Therefore, the court found that he abused his position to mismanage public funds.
Short Tenure As Acting Accountant-General
Nwabuoku became Acting Accountant-General in May 2022.
He replaced Ahmed Idris, who was under investigation for alleged fraud.
However, his tenure was brief.
Authorities removed him in July 2022, just weeks after his appointment, following reports of an ongoing EFCC probe.
Court Rejects Plea Bargain Option
During the trial, reports suggested that the defendant considered a plea bargain.
The arrangement would have involved refunding the money in exchange for a lighter sentence.
However, the court proceeded with a full trial and final judgment instead.
As a result, the judge imposed a lengthy prison sentence based on the charges.
Anti-Corruption Fight Intensifies
The case highlights ongoing efforts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to tackle corruption in Nigeria.
It also underscores the judiciary’s role in holding public officials accountable.
