N868M FRAUD: COURT JAILS EX-ACCOUNTANT-GENERAL NWABUOKU FOR 72 YEARS
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By: Tajudeen Aminat
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted and sentenced former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation, Chukwunyere Nwabuoku, to 72 years in prison without an option of a fine.
Delivering judgment, Justice James Omotosho held that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) successfully proved the nine-count charge of money laundering beyond reasonable doubt.
He consequently found the defendant guilty on all counts.
Justice Omotosho sentenced Nwabuoku to eight years’ imprisonment on each of the nine counts, amounting to a total of 72 years. However, the court ordered that the sentences are to run concurrently.
Justice Omotosho described Nwabuoku’s diversion of funds meant for security and defence while serving as Director of Finance and Accounts in the Ministry of Defence as “appalling,” while commending the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the thoroughness of its prosecution.
The judge noted that the testimony of the 9th prosecution witness, which stated that Nwabuoku voluntarily refunded part of the diverted funds—amounting to over ₦200 million during the investigation—was not challenged by the defence.
He was arraigned on January 15, 2025, on a nine-count amended charge and was granted bail in the sum of N500 million, with two sureties in like sum.
Nwabuoku is alleged to have committed the offences while serving as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021.
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