The Digest:
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Fidet Okhiria, former managing director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), over alleged fraud totalling $385,000 and N165,438,000. Okhiria was brought before the special offences court in Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday on a seven-count charge. The EFCC alleges that between May and September 2024, while serving as NRC MD, Okhiria transferred $205,000 from his Access Bank domiciliary account to Ehimen Richard Okhiria's account at ABN AMRO Bank, Netherlands, as proceeds of unlawful activities. After leaving office, he allegedly transferred another $40,000 in October-November 2024 to the same Dutch account. Okhiria pleaded not guilty to all charges. EFCC counsel Abba Muhammad requested a trial date and remand. Defence counsel Adebowale Kamoru sought time to file a bail application. Justice Rahman Oshodi ordered Okhiria remanded in correctional facility, adjourning trial to May 13-15, 2026. Okhiria served as NRC MD from 2016 to 2024 under former President Buhari.
Key Points:
- The arraignment marks a significant step in investigating alleged corruption in NRC.
- It tests the EFCC's ability to prosecute high-profile public officials.
- Okhiria faces potential conviction, while anti-graft agency pursues accountability.
- This signals continued focus on post-tenure financial investigations.
- The timing, with trial set for May, allows for case preparation.
Sources: The Cable, EFCC
