The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated its prosecution in the N4 billion money-laundering case against Willie Obiano, the former Governor of Anambra State. The trial commenced on Tuesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where two crucial witnesses were brought forward by the EFCC.
The first witness, Mr. Tochukwu Nnadi, a bank manager, detailed his involvement with the financial activities of the Anambra State government. Nnadi, who managed a branch in Awka, explained his interactions with the state government’s accounts, including the significant Security Vote Account. He highlighted that these accounts were regularly funded through the state’s Internally Generated Revenue and managed based on the instructions of account operators.
Nnadi presented extensive documentation, including certified statements of account and account opening packages, which were admitted as Exhibit PW-1 (A1- A794). Despite pressure from the prosecution, Nnadi maintained the confidentiality of the account beneficiaries’ identities.
The second witness, Mrs. Chinwe Egbunam, a businesswoman, recounted her unexpected entanglement with the investigation. Egbunam, who runs a business specializing in Turkish wear, testified that her account was used to funnel over N156.8 million from the Anambra State Government. She clarified that the funds were processed without her direct involvement and were part of an account upgrade handled by her account officer.
Egbunam also commented on the security situation in Anambra during Obiano’s tenure, noting the state’s collaboration with various organizations and religious institutions to maintain peace amid significant unrest.
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Willie Obiano, who governed Anambra State from March 2014 to March 2022, faces a nine-count charge related to the alleged embezzlement of N4 billion from the state’s Security Vote Account. The EFCC contends that these funds were converted into dollars and misappropriated by the defendant.
The defense, led by Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, indicated plans to address objections to the presented exhibits in their final arguments. Justice Inyang Ekwo has scheduled the continuation of the hearing for Wednesday, June 25.
The case against Obiano highlights ongoing efforts by the EFCC to combat high-level corruption and financial misconduct within Nigeria’s political landscape. As the trial progresses, further testimonies and evidence are expected to shed light on the alleged financial irregularities under Obiano’s administration.
