Justice James Omotosho of the High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has scheduled the trial of the former Acting Accountant General of the Federation, Anamekwe Nnabuoku, for January 31, 2025.
Nnabuoku faces multiple financial fraud charges amounting to N1.96 billion, according to a statement from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Nnabuoku was arraigned by the EFCC on January 15, 2025, on an amended nine-count charge, which includes criminal conspiracy and money laundering, following his co-defendant Felix Nweke’s decision to pursue a plea bargain.
During the proceedings, prosecuting counsel Martha Babatunde informed the court that the charges had been amended and requested they be read to Nnabuoku to allow him to enter a plea.
Nnabuoku pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecution then sought a trial date and requested that Nnabuoku be remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Centre, while the defense counsel, Isidore Udenko, filed a bail application on behalf of the defendant.
In response, the prosecution submitted a counter-affidavit, arguing that the defendant posed a flight risk and should not be granted bail.
Justice Omotosho, however, granted bail to Nnabuoku in the amount of N500 million, with two sureties in a similar sum.
He further ordered that the sureties must own properties in Abuja, with each property valued at no less than N250 million.
The sureties must also provide affidavits of means, as well as their bank statements and tax clearance for the past three years, all of which will be verified by the court’s registrar.
The trial has been adjourned to January 31, 2025.
