EFCC Takes Legal Action Against Abuja Socialite and NEDC Coordinator Over Multi-Billion Naira Contract Scam
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated significant legal proceedings against two prominent individuals accused of orchestrating a sophisticated contract fraud scheme worth billions of naira. Prince Chibuike Echem, a well-known Abuja socialite, and Danjuma Mohammed, who served as National Coordinator of the Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project at the North East Development Commission (NEDC), now face serious criminal charges before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Zuba.
Court Arraignment and Charges
On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, both defendants appeared before Justice Keziah Ogbonnaya to answer a comprehensive 55-count charge that encompasses multiple serious offenses. The charges specifically include conspiracy to commit fraud, advance fee fraud through false pretenses, and forgery of official documents. During the court proceedings, both Echem and Mohammed entered pleas of not guilty to all counts brought against them by the anti-graft agency.
The prosecution, led by EFCC counsel Olarenwaju Adeola, presented detailed allegations that the defendants, along with an accomplice named Aminu Alhaji who remains at large, systematically defrauded Diamond Leeds Limited, a reputable indigenous construction and equipment supply company. According to the charges marked CR/708/25, the fraudulent activities occurred between May 2022 and February 2024, resulting in the alleged diversion of N2.28 billion from the construction firm.
Details of the Alleged Fraud Scheme
Investigations conducted by the EFCC reveal a complex web of deception that began unfolding in 2023. Prince Chibuike Echem, who had established business connections with Diamond Leeds Limited as a consultant, allegedly introduced the company's chairman to Danjuma Mohammed. During these introductions, Mohammed was presented as a powerful government insider with substantial influence and access to secure lucrative contracts through the North East Development Commission.
The prosecution alleges that the defendants provided Diamond Leeds Limited with what appeared to be legitimate contract award letters for various projects in Nigeria's northeastern region. However, when the company attempted to mobilize personnel and equipment to begin work on these projects, they were repeatedly prevented from doing so. Mohammed allegedly cited ongoing security challenges in the region as justification for these delays, creating a plausible explanation that masked the fraudulent nature of the arrangements.
Forgery and Additional Financial Manipulation
As the investigation progressed, Diamond Leeds Limited discovered that all contract documents presented by the suspects were completely forged. The company further alleged that after repeated demands for payment and clarification, the syndicate opened a bank account at Guaranty Trust Bank using an acronym similar to the NEDC's official designation. From this account, partial funds were returned to the construction firm under the guise of payment for equipment that was never actually supplied.
EFCC investigators uncovered additional fraudulent activities allegedly connected to Danjuma Mohammed during their probe. These discoveries ultimately contributed to his removal from his position at the North East Development Commission, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations against him.
Court Proceedings and Detention Orders
Following the defendants' pleas, prosecution counsel Adeola formally requested that the court remand both individuals in custody while awaiting further legal proceedings. In her ruling, Justice Ogbonnaya granted this request, ordering that Echem and Mohammed be detained at the Suleja Correctional Centre. The judge cited the facility's proximity to the court as a practical consideration for this decision.
The court has scheduled two important dates for upcoming proceedings in this case. March 25, 2026 has been set for the hearing of bail applications, while April 7, 2026 has been designated for the continuation of the trial itself.
Legal Representation and Prosecution Strategy
Speaking to journalists after the arraignment, Mrs. Beth Igwilo, Senior Advocate of Nigeria and lead counsel for the nominal complainant, provided insight into the prosecution's planned approach. She disclosed that the EFCC intends to call seven witnesses during the trial to substantiate their allegations against the defendants.
"We expect objective and factual reporting as the case progresses," Igwilo stated, emphasizing the importance of accurate media coverage throughout what promises to be a complex and high-profile legal proceeding.
Broader Implications for Anti-Corruption Efforts
The EFCC has indicated that this case represents a significant example of their ongoing commitment to combating contract fraud and protecting legitimate businesses from organized financial crimes. The agency's investigation into this matter demonstrates their systematic approach to uncovering sophisticated fraud schemes that exploit government contracting processes.
This development comes at a time when Nigeria continues to strengthen its anti-corruption framework and enhance transparency in government procurement processes. The case against Echem and Mohammed serves as a reminder of the legal consequences facing individuals who allegedly manipulate public institutions for personal financial gain.
