The Federal Government has arraigned a former Minister of Aviation, Senator Stella Oduah, before Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court over an alleged N5 billion fraud.
Oduah was docked on a five-count charge bordering on conspiracy and advance fee fraud, filed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).
In one of the counts, Oduah is accused of fraudulently obtaining N2.4 billion from the Federal Ministry of Aviation through Broad Waters Resources, allegedly claiming the funds represented payment for “technical supervision.” The alleged offences were said to have occurred in January 2014.
In other counts, she is alleged to have obtained an additional N1.6 billion and N839 million through similar false pretences, offences said to be contrary to Section 8 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act.
Oduah, arraigned alongside Gloria Odita, pleaded not guilty to all the charges. Justice Muazu granted her bail on self-recognition but ordered her to deposit her international passport with the court and to seek permission before travelling outside the country.
Oduah was represented by Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), while Wale Balogun (SAN) appeared for Odita.
This marks the second time the Federal Government has brought charges against Oduah; an earlier case at the Federal High Court in Abuja was later withdrawn.
