Mr Chukwunyere Nwabuoku, former acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGoF), on Monday asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to acquit and discharge him from an alleged N868.46 million fraud case brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Speaking after opening his defence before Justice James Omotosho, Nwabuoku denied being a signatory or shareholder of companies the EFCC linked to him, including Temeeo Synergy Concept Limited, Turge Global Investment Limited, Laptev Bridge Limited, and Arafura Transnational Afro Limited. He also refuted claims that he instructed a contractor, Chief Jerry Nwachukwu, to purchase a property for him, stating he bought it personally and holds all relevant documentation.
Represented by SAN Norrison Quakers, Nwabuoku highlighted his 35-year service record and asserted that EFCC witnesses acknowledged his integrity. He also clarified that dividends and previous refunds related to other EFCC litigations were properly documented.
The EFCC had charged Nwabuoku with nine counts of alleged money laundering under the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act while he served as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Defence (2019–2021). He was later appointed acting AGoF in May 2022 under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari but was replaced in July 2022.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter until 10 February 2026 for cross-examination by the EFCC. Nwabuoku is currently on N500 million bail with two sureties.
