By Mohammed Bello Doka
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) concluded its case against Olugbenga Obadina and his company, Almond Projects Limited, on Monday, February 26, 2024, before Justice Nnamdi Dimgba of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja.
Obadina and Almond Projects Limited are facing trial on an eight-count charge related to conspiracy, official corruption, and money laundering amounting to N2,17,190,000. The charges stem from payments received from the Office of the National Security Adviser in 2015 without any contractual agreement or approval.
During the proceedings, prosecution counsel Ibrahim Buba presented four witnesses before resting the prosecution's case, paving the way for the defendants to present their defense.
In his statement, Obadina, who serves as the Chairman/CEO of Almond Projects Limited, admitted receiving funds from the former National Security Adviser, Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd), for a Solar Farm Project discussion. However, he acknowledged the absence of any contract, agreement, or Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Government.
Obadina detailed the utilization of the funds, including transfers to personal accounts, purchase of property, vehicles, foreign currencies, and investments, among other expenses. Notably, the funds were directed towards personal expenditures with no evidence of contractual execution.
Justice Dimgba adjourned the trial to February 29 and March 1, 2024, for further proceedings.
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