The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has presented additional evidence in the ongoing trial of retired Colonel Sambo Dasuki and three other defendants at an Abuja High Court. Dasuki, a former National Security Adviser, faces a 32‑count charge of criminal breach of trust and dishonest release of funds amounting to N33.2 billion. The charges against him and his co‑defendants—a former General Manager of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and two firms, Acacia Holdings Limited and Reliance Referral Hospital Limited—were amended and read out on 25 March.
The EFCC alleges that Dasuki and the others misappropriated security funds from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and released the equivalent of N10 billion in foreign currencies from the NSA’s account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for the 2014 People’s Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primary election. During the trial, EFCC detective Adariku Michael testified that the commission received an intelligence report on 21 September 2015 concerning abuse of office and money laundering. The report prompted an investigation that uncovered large sums transferred from the ONSA account to various companies between October 2014 and April 2015.
The witness explained that the EFCC wrote to the CBN and other banks for additional information, and the responses were submitted as evidence. The defense counsel reserved their objections to the evidence presented. To ensure a smooth trial, the parties agreed to review the documents before the proceedings continue. Justice Charles Agbaza adjourned the case until 11 November for further hearing.
The trial, which began in 2015, marks a significant development in Nigeria’s efforts to combat corruption and financial crimes. As it progresses, it is expected to shed more light on the alleged financial impropriety and abuse of office. The outcome will be closely watched for its implications on the country’s anti‑corruption initiatives and the rule of law.
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