Former Anambra Governor, Obiano Fails to Halt Trial in N40bn Fraud Allegations

Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected the application filed by former Anambra State Governor, Willie Maduabuchi Obiano, aimed at dismissing the N40 billion money laundering charges leveled against him by the Federal Government.

In a ruling delivered on Thursday, the Judge dismissed all grounds upon which Obiano’s application was based. The former governor had sought the dismissal of the 9-count charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on behalf of the Federal Government.

Among other arguments, Obiano contended that there was no correlation between the proof of evidence provided by the EFCC and the allegations against him.

He maintained that no witness testimony indicated his involvement in directing the disbursement of security votes and other funds belonging to the Anambra State Government.

Additionally, he argued against the concept of vicarious liability in the criminal justice system, asserting that he couldn’t be held accountable for actions of Anambra State officials.

Obiano’s motion, brought under various constitutional and legal provisions, sought several reliefs, including the quashing of the charges and a declaration of lack of jurisdiction by the court. However, Justice Ekwo ruled that these reliefs were premature and lacked merit.

The Judge emphasized that the former governor’s alleged involvement could only be determined through a trial conducted in accordance with the law. Accordingly, he scheduled June 24 to 27 for the full trial of the charges.

Furthermore, Justice Ekwo granted Obiano 60 days to seek medical treatment abroad, with the condition that he sign an undertaking to return to Nigeria after the treatment and surrender his travel passport upon his return.