A contractor, Olugbenga Obadina, has revealed that his company, Almond Projects Limited, received payments totaling N2.17 billion from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) under former President Muhammadu Buhari without any contractual agreement. Obadina made this admission during his cross-examination in a fraud case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC is prosecuting Obadina and his company on an eight-count charge of conspiracy, official corruption, and money laundering. The payments were made on November 28, 2015, under Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd.), the then-National Security Adviser.
When asked to identify the project for which the payments were made, Obadina stated that no site was mentioned in the payment descriptions, and no location was specified. He confirmed that none of the payments were made for the installation of solar or power plants in Yobe State.
The EFCC has moved to arrest Monguno, a key figure in the case, following Obadina’s revelation. The trial has been adjourned until May 30 and 31, 2024, for further proceedings.
This development highlights the EFCC’s efforts to combat corruption and hold individuals accountable for fraudulent activities. The case serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in government dealings and contracts.
