The Digest:
Former Minister of Aviation, Senator Stella Oduah, has been arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges of fraud, obtaining money by false pretence, and criminal breach of trust totaling N2.4 billion. She was charged alongside Gloria Odita before Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal High Court.
Key Points:
- The five-count charge alleges the defendants conspired in January 2014 to obtain N2.47 billion from the Ministry of Aviation under false claims.
- The funds were allegedly drawn through companies Broad Waters Resources Nigeria Ltd and Global Offshore Marine Ltd for fictitious "Technical Supervision" and "Security Integrated and Logistics Support Services."
- The prosecution, led by Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi, stated the offences violate the Advance Fee Fraud Act and Penal Code provisions on misappropriation.
- Both defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges and were granted bail on self-recognition by the court.
- Oduah's counsel highlighted her voluntary return from abroad to face trial and her prior cooperation with EFCC administrative bail.
- The court ordered the defendants to surrender their travel documents and seek judicial permission for any trips abroad.
- The trial has been adjourned to February 12, 2026, for the commencement of the hearing.
Sources: The Cable
