Anamekwe Nwabuoku, previously the acting Accountant-General of the Federation, appeared before Justice James Omotoso of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, requesting additional time to finalize the reimbursement of public funds he and his co-defendant, Felix Nweke, are accused of misappropriating.
Nwabuoku and Nweke face charges of money laundering amounting to N1.6 billion, brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The alleged offenses occurred during Nwabuoku’s tenure as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021.
During the court session, the defendants urged for a postponement of their arraignment to complete ongoing refund processes. Nweke’s lawyer, Emeka Onyeaka, disclosed progress in settling the matter, noting substantial refunds had been made and communication with the EFCC initiated.
Similarly, Nwabuoku’s counsel, Maduakolam Igwe, confirmed his client’s efforts in restitution and requested time to conclude administrative procedures related to the refunds.
In response, EFCC’s counsel, Ogechi Ujam, acknowledged receipt of refund proposals but asserted that no negotiation or agreement had been finalized between the parties.
Justice Omotoso adjourned the case until October 14 to allow for further proceedings and potential arraignment of the defendants.
