EFCC vs Nwabuoku: High-Stakes Fraud Trial Hits Roadblock as Court Reserves Ruling
The Federal High Court in Abuja has reserved judgment on the no-case submission filed by former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation, Chukwunyere Anamekwe Nwabuoku, in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) alleged N868.46 million fraud case against him. The court is set to deliver its ruling on November 13, 2025.
The Charges Against Nwabuoku
Nwabuoku, who served as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021, is facing a nine-count amended charge bordering on money laundering. The EFCC alleges that he conspired with several companies to convert public funds derived from unlawful activities. The anti-graft agency claims that Nwabuoku acquired assets, including shares and a house, during his tenure at the Ministry of Defence.
The No-Case Submission
Nwabuoku’s counsel, Norrison Quakers (SAN), argued that the EFCC lacked jurisdiction to prosecute the case, contending that the alleged offenses fall outside the agency’s legal remit. Quakers also maintained that there was no evidence to prove that Nwabuoku “indirectly converted” or “concealed” the origin of the funds in question. Furthermore, he argued that a charge of conspiracy requires evidence of multiple participants, which the EFCC failed to provide.
EFCC’s Counterarguments
In response, the EFCC’s counsel, Ekele Iheanacho (SAN), urged the court to dismiss the no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to warrant Nwabuoku’s defense. Iheanacho pointed to testimonies from two witnesses that revealed no lawful transactions between the Ministry of Defence and four “front companies” that received payments during Nwabuoku’s tenure. He also highlighted Nwabuoku’s extrajudicial statement, which allegedly corroborated the prosecution’s position.
The Implications of the Ruling
The court’s decision on November 13 will determine whether Nwabuoku has a case to answer or if the charges will be dismissed. If the no-case submission succeeds, the EFCC’s charges will be dismissed in favor of the former AGF. However, if the court rules in favor of the EFCC, Nwabuoku will be required to enter his defense.
Nwabuoku’s Background and Refund
It is worth noting that Nwabuoku had previously refunded N220 million and a duplex linked to him to the EFCC following investigations into alleged advance fee fraud. This development may have implications for the court’s decision, particularly if the prosecution argues that the refund is evidence of Nwabuoku’s guilt.
As the court prepares to deliver its ruling, the outcome of this high-profile case will be closely watched by observers and stakeholders in the anti-corruption community. Will the court uphold the no-case submission, or will Nwabuoku be required to defend himself against the EFCC’s allegations? The answer will have to wait until November 13 ¹.
