JUST IN: Ex-Gov Obiano Loses Case To Stop EFCC From Prosecuting Him Over N40B

Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the application by former Anambra State Governor, Willie Maduabuchi Obiano, seeking to quash the N40 billion money laundering charges brought against him by the Federal Government.

In a ruling delivered on Thursday, the Judge rejected all grounds upon which Obiano’s application was based.

The former Governor had prayed the Judge to dismiss the 9-count charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on behalf of the Federal Government.

Among his claims, Obiano argued that there was no connection between the proof of evidence supplied to the court by the EFCC and the accusations against him. He also asserted that he couldn’t be held accountable for alleged unlawful actions by officials of the Anambra State Government.

However, Justice Ekwo held that the reliefs sought by Obiano were premature and lacking in merit. He emphasized that the trial must be conducted in line with the provisions of the law to determine if the former Governor is linked with the alleged offences or not.

The former Governor faces 9-count charges bordering on money laundering amounting to N40 billion. The Judge scheduled June 24, 25, 26, and 27 for the full-blown trial of the charges.

Furthermore, Justice Ekwo granted Obiano 60 days to travel abroad for medical treatment, under the condition that he signs an undertaking to return to Nigeria after treatment and deposits his traveling passport within three days of his return.