Abuja: The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Chukwunyere Nwabuoku, the former acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGoF), to a 72-year jail term for his involvement in a fraud case amounting to N868 million. Justice James Omotosho handed down the sentence after finding Nwabuoku guilty on all nine counts of money laundering charges filed against him.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) effectively demonstrated the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. The court sentenced Nwabuoku to eight years for each of the nine counts, to run concurrently from March 23. The EFCC had accused Nwabuoku of conspiring with several companies and individuals to convert funds derived from unlawful activities, an offense under the Money Laundering Prohibition Act.
The charges against Nwabuoku stemmed from his tenure as the Director of Finance and Accounts in the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021, during which funds meant for national defense were allegedly diverted for personal use. After the suspension of Ahmed Idris over an unrelated fraud case, Nwabuoku was appointed acting AGoF in May 2022 but was removed two months later amid corruption allegations.
During the trial, Justice Omotosho dismissed arguments from Nwabuoku’s defense counsel regarding the inadmissibility of his confessional statements and noted that the prosecution had established its case effectively. The judge remarked on the serious nature of the charges, emphasizing that Nwabuoku’s actions exemplified money laundering, where illicit money was funneled through legitimate channels.
Nwabuoku’s defense pleaded for leniency, citing his long service to the country and his role as the sole provider for his family. The defense also highlighted his cooperation during the investigation and partial repayment of the defrauded funds. Despite these pleas, the court maintained the sentence, advising the defense to respond to any post-conviction forfeiture applications filed by the prosecution.
The case had seen several twists, including an initial plea bargain that was not finalized. Nwabuoku’s co-defendant, Felix Nweke, had also sought a plea bargain which was not pursued. Ultimately, the court concluded that the EFCC’s evidence was sufficient to convict Nwabuoku on all counts.