Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected the application filed by former Anambra State Governor, Willie Maduabuchi Obiano, aimed at dismissing the N40 billion money laundering charges leveled against him by the Federal Government.
In his ruling delivered on Thursday, the Judge dismissed all grounds presented by Obiano in support of his application.
Obiano had sought the dismissal of the 9-count charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), arguing that there was no correlation between the evidence provided by the EFCC and the accusations against him. He also claimed that there was no testimony indicating his involvement in the disbursement of security votes and other funds of the Anambra State Government, and that he cannot be held responsible for the actions of state government officials under the principle of vicarious liability.
His motion was based on various legal provisions including the Constitution and the Administration of the Criminal Justice Act 2015.
However, Justice Ekwo ruled that Obiano’s requests were premature and lacked merit. He emphasized that the determination of whether Obiano is linked to the alleged offenses can only be ascertained through a proper trial.
Obiano faces charges of money laundering amounting to N40 billion, and the Judge has scheduled June 24 to 27 for the commencement of the trial.
Furthermore, Justice Ekwo granted Obiano permission to travel abroad for medical treatment for 60 days. However, he ordered Obiano to sign an undertaking to return to Nigeria after treatment and to surrender his passport within three days of his return.