By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a dramatic turn of events in the ongoing trial of Ali Bello and Dauda Suleiman, accused of orchestrating a money laundering scheme amounting to a staggering N10 billion, crucial testimony has emerged shedding light on the intricate web of financial transactions. Rabiu Musa Tafada, a prominent Bureau de Change Operator, took the stand before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, providing pivotal insights into the alleged illicit activities involving Suleiman.
Tafada, the proprietor of Rabiu Tafada Global Ventures, revealed that Suleiman, the second defendant, was a familiar face in his bureau de change establishment. He disclosed that Suleiman frequented his office for various business dealings, including the exchange, borrowing, or selling of dollars. Testifying on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, Tafada affirmed Suleiman's status as a regular client, often conducting significant financial transactions.
Located at Plot 2339, Ladi Kwali Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, Tafada's bureau de change office became a focal point in the investigation conducted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Tafada recounted the EFCC's visit to his premises in 2023, during which they seized several documents, including a hard copy notebook and an exercise book. Despite objections from the defense, Justice Omotosho ruled in favor of admitting these items as evidence.
During his testimony, Tafada meticulously examined the seized documents, confirming the authenticity of the recorded transactions. He explained that each entry in the records pertained to individuals seeking currency exchange or cash transfers, often facilitated through his bureau de change. While Tafada acknowledged that he did not personally document these transactions due to his inability to write, he affirmed that his staff meticulously recorded them on his behalf.
"I know the face of the second defendant. He is Dawud because he comes to either sell, buy, or borrow money from me," Tafada asserted, recalling specific instances where Suleiman initiated substantial transactions. He recounted directing his staff to record transactions involving significant sums, including a transaction on June 10, 2022, involving Sunny Benghazi for Fifteen Million Naira (N15m), and another on June 17, 2022, where Suleiman requested funds to be disbursed to Bashir Falala totaling Fifty-Nine Million Naira (N59m) and Forty Million Naira (N40m).
The courtroom buzzed with anticipation as Tafada's testimony provided a glimpse into the alleged money laundering activities at the center of the trial. Amid procedural discussions regarding an amended charge and a counter-affidavit, Justice Omotosho adjourned the proceedings to February 13, 2024, signaling the continuation of what promises to be a riveting legal battle.
As the trial unfolds, the revelations brought forth by Tafada underscore the complexities of the case and the meticulous efforts by authorities to uncover the truth behind the alleged financial improprieties.
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