(In Nigeria) Ex-Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose acquitted of all charges in N2.2bn money laundering case!

 

A Federal High Court in Lagos has acquitted former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose in a long-standing case involving N2.2 billion in alleged money laundering. The charges, filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), centered on accusations of financial misappropriation and money laundering said to have occurred during Fayose's tenure as governor. The case had dragged on for several years, becoming one of the most high-profile political corruption trials in Nigeria. The EFCC had alleged that Fayose received and handled large sums of illicit funds during his time in office, part of which were purportedly traced to campaign finance irregularities and misappropriated public funds. However, Fayose consistently denied any wrongdoing and challenged the credibility and sufficiency of the prosecution's evidence throughout the trial.

Delivering judgment on Tuesday, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke upheld Fayose’s no-case submission, effectively ending the trial in Fayose's favor. According to the ruling, the prosecution failed to link Fayose directly to the alleged criminal acts or provide sufficient evidence warranting him to present a defense. The court held that the EFCC had not established a prima facie case meaning there was no legally adequate case to answer. Justice Aneke's decision effectively discharges Fayose from all counts, marking a major legal victory for the former governor and a significant setback for the EFCC. The ruling also raises questions about the strength and handling of politically sensitive corruption cases in Nigeria, particularly as it relates to high-ranking public officials. It remains to be seen whether the EFCC will appeal the ruling.

See also: (In Nigeria) Presidential Aide Bayo Onanuga Faces Backlash Over Deleted Tweet Downplaying Buhari’s Northern Votes in 2019 Election