The Digest:
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed an appeal challenging the acquittal of Tuoyo Omatsuli, a former executive director of projects at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and three others over an alleged N3.6 billion money laundering case. The appeal, filed at the Court of Appeal in Lagos, argues that the trial court failed to properly evaluate evidence from 16 witnesses and multiple exhibits. The defendants were discharged and acquitted in March 2026.
Key Points:
- The EFCC alleges the N3.645 billion traced to Omatsuli was unlawful gratification from a contractor.
- Funds were allegedly routed through proxies and used to acquire high-value properties.
- The trial court had earlier discharged the defendants in 2020, but the Court of Appeal ordered a retrial.
- The EFCC argues that criminal intent can be inferred from unusual financial flows and concealment attempts.
- The commission wants the appellate court to set aside the acquittal and enter a conviction.
