The Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to bring the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, before it on December 30 for arraignment over an alleged N4.6bn money laundering case. Justice Emeka Nwite gave the order after the commission failed for the second time to present the defendant for plea-taking.
The judge warned that the EFCC’s prosecuting lawyer could face punishment if Adamu is not produced on the next court date. Adamu and Ayab Agro Products and Freight Company Limited are listed as the first and second defendants in a six-count charge filed by the EFCC.
According to the charge, Adamu is accused of working with others said to be at large to launder about N4.65bn between June and December 2023. The commission alleged that the funds were released by Polaris Bank for the supply of motorcycles to the Bauchi State Government, but the items were never delivered.
The prosecution also accused the defendants of moving and keeping proceeds linked to the alleged act through third parties, including a transfer of over N165m to Ayab Agro Products and Freight Company Limited. The offences are said to be against the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
During the hearing, the EFCC asked for more time, saying it planned to amend the charge and include other suspects. Defence counsel opposed the request, arguing that the case was ready for arraignment and that the continued absence of the commissioner was unfair.
The court expressed displeasure at the handling of the matter and insisted that the defendant must be produced on the next date. The case was adjourned to December 30, with a clear warning that further delay would attract penalties.
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