Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted and sentenced former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation, Chukwunyere Nwabuoku, to a total of 72 years’ imprisonment without the option of a fine.
Delivering judgment, Justice Omotosho held that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) successfully proved the nine-count charge of money laundering beyond reasonable doubt. He consequently found the defendant guilty on all counts.
Nwabuoku was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment on each of the nine counts, amounting to 72 years in total. However, the court ordered that the sentences run concurrently.
The judge described as “appalling” Nwabuoku’s diversion of funds earmarked for security and defence during his tenure as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Defence, and commended the EFCC for its thorough prosecution of the case.
Justice Omotosho also noted that the testimony of the ninth prosecution witness, that Nwabuoku voluntarily refunded over ₦200 million during the investigation was not challenged by the defence.
Nwabuoku was arraigned on January 15, 2025, on a nine-count amended charge and was granted bail in the sum of ₦500 million with two sureties in like sum.
The offences were alleged to have been committed between 2019 and 2021 while he served as Director of Finance and Accounts in the Ministry of Defence.
