Court Denies Bail for Abuja Socialites in Alleged N2.28 Billion Fraud Case
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Kubwa, Abuja, has firmly rejected the bail application filed by Prince Chibuike Echem, a prominent Abuja socialite, and Danjuma Mohammed, the former National Coordinator of the Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project at the North East Development Commission. This decision marks a significant development in a high-profile case involving alleged financial misconduct.
Arraignment and Charges
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Nigeria's primary anti-corruption agency, arraigned the defendants in January on a 55-count charge. The charges include conspiracy, advance-fee fraud, and forgery, related to an alleged contract scam amounting to ₦2.28 billion. Both defendants pleaded not guilty to all counts, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle.
According to the prosecution, Echem and Mohammed are accused of defrauding Diamond Leeds Limited, an indigenous construction and equipment supply company. They allegedly claimed they could secure lucrative government contracts, leading the company to part with substantial funds under false pretences. Investigations revealed that documents supporting the supposed contracts were forged, and despite award letters, the company was never allowed to mobilise to project sites in the North-East, with insecurity cited as a reason.
Court Proceedings and Remand Order
During the hearing, the prosecution applied for the defendants to be remanded pending trial. The presiding judge granted this request, ordering their remand at the Suleja Correctional Centre, citing its proximity to the court for convenience. Additionally, the judge fixed ten consecutive hearing days, commencing on 25 March, to expedite the trial process.
Lead counsel B. C. Igwilo, SAN, indicated that about seven witnesses would testify in the case, urging for objective reporting to ensure a fair trial. The EFCC further disclosed that ongoing investigations uncovered additional fraud links involving Mohammed, which allegedly led to his dismissal from the NEDC, adding complexity to the proceedings.
Background and Implications
The alleged scheme reportedly unfolded in 2023 when Echem, engaged as a consultant by Diamond Leeds, introduced the company's chief executive to Mohammed, presenting him as an influential power-broker in the North. Prosecutors assert that over ₦2.28 billion was obtained through deceit, with part of the funds recovered from an account opened in the name of NEDC at a commercial bank.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to combat corruption and financial crimes, particularly in government contracts. The court's refusal of bail underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the judicial commitment to ensuring accountability. As the trial progresses, it will be closely watched for its potential impact on anti-corruption initiatives and public trust in governance.
The matter has been adjourned, with further hearings scheduled to delve into the evidence and testimonies. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases involving high-profile individuals and alleged fraud in Nigeria's public sector.
