EFCC Unveils 15 Witnesses in N4bn Theft Case Against Former Anambra Governor Obiano

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has revealed its strategy in the N4 billion theft case against the former governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano. The prosecuting counsel, Slyvanus Tahir (SAN), announced on Wednesday that the EFCC plans to present 15 witnesses to substantiate the charges filed against Obiano.

The ex-governor was arraigned on nine counts before the Federal High Court in Abuja, to which he pleaded not guilty. Tahir expressed the EFCC’s readiness to prosecute the case, emphasizing the presence of 15 witnesses armed with documentary evidence within the court’s jurisdiction.

During the proceedings, Obiano’s lawyer, Ikpeazu (SAN), requested the judge to grant bail to the former governor, citing a filed application. However, Tahir opposed, stating that he received the bail application on the same morning and needed time to respond. He urged the judge to adjourn the hearing and send Obiano to prison temporarily.

Justice Inyang Ekwo, in response, inquired about Obiano’s previous administrative bail status, to which Tahir confirmed. The judge decided to adopt administrative bail but restricted Obiano’s movement to the court’s jurisdiction. Additionally, he ordered the EFCC to deposit the defendant’s travel documents with the court registrar and mandated verification of the sureties’ addresses.

The case was adjourned till March 4, 5, 6, and 7 for the continuation of the trial.

The charges against Obiano involve allegations of diverting Anambra State’s security votes amounting to N4,008,573,350 during his governorship from 2014 to 2022. The EFCC accused him of transferring significant sums indirectly to entities unrelated to state affairs, constituting acts of stealing and corruption.

Obiano faces charges under the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011, as amended, with the EFCC maintaining that the funds in question are proceeds of unlawful activities. Despite the charges, the former governor pleaded not guilty.