My name is Nigeria !
I need Re-Building and not Re-Branding.
I am Nigeria !! . I am divided into 36 unequal states, plus my capital territory, christened ABUJA . I have millions of acres of arable land and billions of cubic litres of water, but I cannot feed myself. So I spend $1 billion to import rice and another $2 billion to import milk. I produce rice, but don't eat it. I have 60 million cattle but no milk. I have the capacity to feed the whole of Africa but I import most food instead.
I am hungry, please help and re-brand me.
I drive the latest car in the world but have no roads neither can I boast of
manufacturing a bicycle's tyre. I lose family and friends everyday on my roads for which funds have been allocated to build and rehabilitate but the fund has been looted. I lose my young, my old, and my most brainy and productive people to the potholes, craters and crevasses they travel on everyday.
I am in permanent mourning, please re-brand me.
My school has no teacher and my classroom has no roof. I take lecture notes through the window and live with 15 others in a single room. All my professors have gone abroad, some of the rest are awaiting visas. Those that remain, depends on money raked from the sales of hand-outs to students.
My students receives lectures for a maximum of 3 months in a year due to lecturers' strike or students' boycott of lectures because of lack of better condition of service and deplorable condition on campus. That explains why I have university graduates, who are semi- illiterates.
I want a future, please re-brand me.
Malaria, typhoid and many other preventable diseases send me to hospitals which have no doctors, no medicines and no power. So my wife gives birth by candle light and surgery is performed by quacks. All the nurses have gone abroad and the rest are also waiting to go. I have the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world and future generations are dying before me.
I am hopeless, hapless and helpless, please re-brand me.
I wanted change so I stood all day long to cast my vote. But even before I could vote, the results had been announced. When I dared to speak out, silence was enthroned by bullets. My rulers are my oppressors, and my policemen are my terrors. I am ruled by men in mufti, but I am not a democracy.
I have no verve, no vote, no voice, please re-brand me.
I have over 50 million youths with no jobs, no present and no future. So my sons in the North have become street urchins and his brothers in the South have become militants. My nephews die of thirst in the Sahara and his cousins drown in the waters of the Mediterranean . My daughters walk the streets of Lagos , Abuja and Port Harcourt, while her sisters parade the streets of Rome and Amsterdam .
I am inconsolable, please re-brand me.
My people cannot sleep at night and cannot relax by day. They cannot use ATM
machines, nor use cheques. My children sleep through the staccato of AK 47's, see
through the mist of tear gas, while we all inhale Carbon Monoxide, poisonous
CO-2 from popular 'I big pass my neighbour' (portable generators) and 'Okada' (motorbike taxis)
The leaders have looted everything on ground and below. They walk the land with haughty strides and fly the skies with private jets (28 of which were bought in the last 12 months). They have stolen the future of generations yet unborn and have money they cannot spend in several lifetimes, but their brothers die of hunger.
I want justice, please re-brand me.
I can produce anything, but import everything. So my toothpick is made in China; my toothpaste is made in South Africa; my salt is made in Ghana; my butter is made in Ireland; my milk is made in Holland; my shoe is made in Italy; my vegetable oil is made in Malaysia; my biscuit is made in Indonesia; my chocolate is made in Turkey and my table water made in France.
My taste is far-flung and foreign. I no longer cook at home but take pride in eating at take-away outlets fashioned after the Western style of living.
Anything made in my land is inferior; I prefer those made in England , America or Europe . To crown it all, items made in my land but specifically sent abroad with made in England labels are bought back from 'Oyinbo' land at 5 times the original price it would have gone for had it been sold as home made,
please re-brand me.
My people are cancerous from the greed of their friends who bleach palm oil with chemicals; my children died because they drank 'My Pikin' with NAFDAC
numbers; my poor die because kerosene explodes in their faces; my land is dead because all the trees have been cut down; flood kills my people yearly because the drainage is clogged; my fish are dead because the oil companies dump waste in my rivers; my communities are vanishing into the huge yawns of gully erosion, and nothing is being done. My livelihood is in jeopardy, and I am in the uttermost depths of despondence,
please re-brand me.
I have genuine leather but choose to eat it.. So I spend a billion dollars to import fake leather. I have four (4) refineries, but prefer to import fuel, so I waste more billions to import petrol. I have no security in my country, but would rather send troops to keep the peace in another man's land. I have 160 dams, but cannot get water to drink, so I buy 'pure' water that broils my inwards. I have a million children waiting to enter universities, but my ivory dungeons can only take a tenth (10 %). I have no power (electricity) , but choose to flare gas, and vote billion of dollars every year to generate electricity but not a single watt has come from it. So, my people have learnt to see in the dark and stare at the glare of naked flares.
I have no direction, please re-brand me.
My people pray to God every morning and every night, but commit every crime known to man because re-branded identities will never alter the tunes of inbred rhythms. Just as the drums of heritage heralds the frenzied jingles, remember - the Nigerian soul can only be Nigerian - fighting free from the cold embrace of a government that has no spring, no sense, no shame. So we watch the possessed, frenzied dance, drenched in silent tears as freedom is locked up in democracy's empty cellars.
I need guidance, please re-brand me.
But then, why can I not simply be me, without being re-branded?
Or does my complexion cloud the colour of my character?
Does my location limit the lengths of my liberty? Does the spirit of my conviction shackle my soul?
Does my mien maim the mine of my mind? And is this life worth re-branding?
Is it re-branding that I need or complete re-building?
Others blame my calamities on the colonial master that has left my shore some 49 years ago. Without deceiving myself, I know I have problems, who will deliver me?
May be what I need is to be re-born, Christians call it being born-again.
Turning to a higher authority or changing direction. I mean to sincerely own up and turn to the man up-stairs, may be, just maybe solution will come from there.
To re-build a wobbling structure, there is need for dismantling of existing one (remember, if the foundation can be destroyed, what can the righteous do?)..
Shall I then consider the idea muted by some of my own who have fled abroad?
Some call for 'Separation for Co-operation' , others call for true Federalism - while others are yet asking for the return to Parliamentary system.
Which way do I go? on October 1, 2010, I will celebrate my 50th birth day.
I do not want to enter my golden age without direction,
... so, please, help me God. Re-mould and Re-Build me.
Tuesday 26 October 2010
Monday 25 October 2010
EFCC’s Advisory List of corrupt officials
EFCC’s Advisory List
10.24.2010
NAME
TRIAL COURT
CASE STATUS
AMOUNT INVOLVED
STATUS OF SUSPECT (S)
REMARK
Ayo Fayose (Former
Governor of Ekiti State)
Fed. High Court, Lagos. Case now transferred to Ekiti for trial after the accused opposed his trial in Lagos
Arraigned on 51 state counts. Plea already taken but defence lawyer keeps filing frivolous applications for long adjournments to frustrate and prolong trial.
N1.2 Billion
granted bail by court since 2007
Inherited Case filed since 17th Dec.2006
Adenike Grange
(Former Minister of Health)
FCT. High Court Maitama
Arraigned on 56 state counts. Plea already taken. Defence lawyer often seeks long adjournments to prolong trial. Matter adjourned to Oct 27
N300
million
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Case filed since 2nd April.2008
Joshua Dariye (Former
Governor Plateau State)
FCT High Court Gudu
Arraigned on 23 state counts. Plea already taken but defence lawyer challenged court jurisdiction.But Appeal court threw out application and case now fixed for continuation of trial on Oct. 27, 2010.
N700 Million
granted bail by court since 2007
Inherited Case filed since 13th July 2007
Saminu Turaki (Former
Governor, Jigagwa State)
FCT. High Court Maitama
Arraigned on 32 state counts. Plea already taken but defence lawyer challenged court jurisdiction. Case stalled at HC while seeking stay of trial at appeal court.It is part of usual attempt to frustrate and prolong trial
N36 Billion
granted bail by court since 2007
Inherited Case filed since 13th July 2007
Orji Uzor Kalu (Former
Governor, Abia State)
Fed. High Court Maitama
Arraigned on 107 state counts. Plea already taken but defence lawyer raised preliminary objection against charges. Lost at trial court but has gone on appeal to stay trial. It is part of usual attempt to prolong trial.
N5 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Case filed since 11th June 2007
James Ibori (Former
Governor, Delta State)
Federal High Court Asaba
Arraigned on 170 state counts.Defence lawyer challenged Kaduna Fed. court jurisdiction, lost at trial court but won at appeal court.Case re-assigned by CJ to Asaba FHC. Without taking plea, suspect applied to quash charges, prosecution opposed application but trial judge quashed the charges Dec. 19. EFCC filed appeal Dec. 23, 2009 and Jan.8, 2010.
N9.2 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Fresh charges filed In August 2009
Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello
(Serving Senator)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 56 state counts.Plea already taken but case stalled as defence lawyer filed to challenge charges.Application pending for determination.This is part of frivolous applications to delay trial .
N10 Million
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Case filed since April 2 2008
Lucky Igbinedion
(Former Governor of Edo State)
Fed. High Court, Enugu
Arraigned on 191 state counts. Applied for plea bargain &Convicted but EFCC has appealed the judgment to seek for stiffer sanctions.
N4.3 Billion
Case determined 2008
Inherited Case filed on 23rd Jan.2008
Gabriel Aduku (Former
Minister of Health)
FCT. High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 56 state counts.Court ruled on no case against suspect
N300 Million
Case determined in 2008
Inherited Case filed on April 2nd 2008
Jolly Nyame (Former
Governor of Taraba State)
Fed. High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 41 state counts. Plea already taken and trial begun after all applications filed by the accused to stall trial have been dismissed by the supreme court. Trial fully commenced and on-going at FCT HC.
N1.3 billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Case filed since 13th July 2007
Chimaroke Nnamani
(Former Governor of Enugu State)
Fed. High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 105 state counts. Plea already taken but case is stalled as defence lawyer filed to transfer case to another judge on allegation of bias against trial judge even as counsel has again filed to challenge court jurisdiction.This is equally an attempt to prolong trial.
N5.3 Billion
granted bail by court since 2007
Inherited Case filed since 11th Dec.2007
Michael Botmang
(Former Governor of Plateau State)
Fed. High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 31 state counts. Plea already taken but trial stalled due to suspect’s ailment, on dialysis.
N1.5 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri on 18th July 2008
Roland Iyayi (Former
Managing Director of FAAN)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 11 state counts. Plea already taken.Trial on-going
Court taking prosecution witnesses testimony
N5.6 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
Nyeson Wike (Serving Chief of Staff to Governor of Rivers State)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on state counts. Court quashed charges.EFCC already appealed judgement. Appeal pending at appeal court.
N4.670 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri on Oct.9 2008
Eider George (Austrian
Business man)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 11 state counts. Plea already taken and trial on-going. Prosecution witnesses undergoing cross-examination. Court granted suspect leave to travel abroad for medical treatment.
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
Kenny Martins (Police
Equipment Fund)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 28 amended state counts. Plea already taken and trial on- going. Witnesses under cross- examination. Continuation of trial fixed for Nov.9
N774 Million
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
13 Filipinos (Charged for
Oil Bunkering)
Fed. High Court, Benin
Arraigned on state counts, convicted at the close of trial and sentenced to 65 Years altogether
N300 Million
EFCC returns to court to seek forfeiture of vessel used for oil theft.
Commenced by Waziri in 2009
6 Ghanaians (Charged for
Oil Bunkering) and Nigerian accomplice.
Fed. High Court, Benin
Arraigned on state counts and trial Commenced. Prosecution closed case, matter adjourned for defence to close.
N250 Million
granted bail by court in 2009. All 7 accused sentenced to 112 years imprisonment April 30, 2010
Commenced by Waziri in June 2009
Patrick Fernadez
(Indian Buisnessman)
Fed. High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 56 state counts. Plea already taken and trial commences Nov.
N32 Billion
granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in 2009
Prof. Babalola Borishade
(Former Minister of Aviation)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 11 state counts. Plea already taken and trial on-going (N5.6 billion)
Prosecution witnesses under cross-examination.
N5.6 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
Boni Haruna (Former
Governor, Adamawa State)
Fed. High Court Maitama
Arraigned on amended 28 state counts. Plea taken. Adoption of motion slated for Nov
N254 Million
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in 2008
Femi Fani-Kayode
(Former Minster of Aviation)
Fed. High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 47 state counts . Plea taken but case stalled as a result of trial court’s refusal to admit e-print of suspect’s statement of account as evidence. EFCC won appeal against the decision. Defence on appeal at supreme court.
N250 Million
granted bail by court in 2008
Commenced by Waziri in 2008
Prince Ibrahim Dumuje (Police Equip-ment Fund)
FCT High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 28 amended state counts. Plea taken and trial on-going. Prosecution witnesses under cross-examination. Continuation fixed for Nov.9
N774 Million
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
Bode George (Chieftain of
the ruling party, PDP)
Fed. High Court. Lagos
Arraigned on 68 state counts. Plea taken and trial concluded. Accused convicted and sentenced to 2 years. Convict on appeal while serving jail term.
N100 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008. Has been in jail after conviction in Oct 2009.
Commenced by Waziri in Dec.08
Rasheed Ladoja (Former
Governor of Oyo State)
Fed. High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 33 state counts. Plea taken and trial on- going
Prosecution witnesses slated for cross-examination in Nov.
N6 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri
Four Snr Zenith Bank Managers
Fed. High Court, Port Harcourt
Arraigned on 56 state counts. Plea taken but case stalled over an injunction by Rivers State Govt, which is a party in the case to stop EFCC. Injunction being challenged at appeal court
N3.6 Billion
Granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri
Mallam Nasir El-Rufai
(Former Minister of Federal Capital Territory)
Fed. High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 8 state counts.Suspect charged for corruption and abuse of office.Plea taken and case adjourned for trial but accused challenged jurisdiction of court as a ploy to delay trial. Case adjourned.
Suspect at large but returned to the country. Interrogated on May 4, 2010 and arraigned on May 12
Commenced by Waziri in 2009.
Sen. Nicholas Ugbade, (Serving Senator) Hon. Ndudi Elumelu Hon. Mohammed Jibo,
Hon. Paulinus Igwe,(Serving Members of House of Rep)
Dr Aliyu Abdullahi (Serving Fed.Perm.Sec) Mr. Samuel Ibi. Mr. Simon Nanle,
Mr. Lawrence Orekoya, Mr Kayode Oyedeji,
Mr. A. Garba Jahun
FCT High Court Abuja
(This is the Rural Electrification Agency Case involving a serving Senator, 3 serving members of the House of Representatives , the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power and other high profile public officers)
Arraigned on 158 state counts. Plea taken while prosecution has filed more charges against suspects. Suspects filed to quash charges but application thrown out by court.
N5.2 Billion
Remanded in Prison Custody and later granted bail Court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in May 2009
Prof B.Sokan, Molkat
Mutfwang, Michael Aule, Andrew Ekpanobi, (All Directors) Alexander Cozman(MD,In termarket Ltd). (This is the UBEC case where high profile public servants connived with an American, Alexander Cozman) to defraud the Government.
Federal High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 64 state counts. Plea taken while more charges were filed against suspects due to appearance of Prof Sokan. Matter adjourned to Nov 9 for suspects to take plea on amended charges
N636 Million
Suspects remanded in prison custody and later granted bail by court in 2009.
Commenced by Waziri on May 19 2009
Dr Ransome Owan, Mr. Abdulrahman Ado, Mr. Adulrasak Alimi, Mr. Onwuamaeze Iloeje, Mrs Grace Eyoma, Mr. Mohammed Bunu,
Mr. Abimbola Odubiyi
Federal High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 196 state counts. Plea taken. Trial billed to commence while more charges were filed against suspects. Further hearing slated for Oct 29. But the FG has withdrawn charges against the accused persons who were consequently discharged by the court on Sept 16,2010
N1.5 Billion
granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri on April 22 2009
Tom Iseghohi, Muhammed Buba, Mike
Okoli,(GM&M anagers of Transcorp Group PLC)
Fed. High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 32 state counts. Plea taken. Matter adjourned for commencement of trial Nov 9.
N15 Billion
Suspects Remanded in Kuje Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in May 2009
Dr Albert Ikomi, rtd perm sec, his firm, satelite town dev co Ltd
Fed. High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos
Arraigned on 4 state counts. Plea taken and Matter adjourned for hearing
N43 Million
Suspects Remanded in Ikoyi Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in 2009
Dr Yuguda Manu Kaigama,
Chairman, Taraba State Civil Service Commission
Taraba State High Court 5, Jalingo
Arraigned on 37 state counts . Plea taken and Matter stalled as suspect dropped dead.
N17 Million
Suspect remanded in prison custody. Co-accused, Yakubu Danjuma Takun, at large.
Commenced by Waziri on Oct.10 2009
Chief Joe Musa, DG
Natioanl Gallery of Art, Olusegun Ogumba, Chinedu Obi, Oparagu Elizabeth, Kweku Tandoh, (All Directors of NGA).
FCT High Court, Lugbe (Justice Olukayode Adeniyi)
Arraigned on 12 state counts . Plea taken and defence lawyer filed applications to stall trial but lost the bid. Matter adjourned for trial Nov 19/20, 2010
N1.012 Billion
Suspects Remanded in Kuje Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in July 20 2009
Dr Dayo Olagunju,
Ex. Sec. National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult & Non-Formal Education. Joshua Alao, Alice Abang, Jibrin Waguna, Ahmed Abubakar, Shehu Abdullahi, Dr Victoria King- Nwachukwu, Adamu Khalid, Moses Oseni, Francis Awelewa & Bashir Suleiman
Fed. High Court, Abuja. Justice Anuli Chikere
Arraigned on 17 state counts.Plea taken and Matter adjourned for commencement of trial Oct 22, 2010
N479 Million
Suspects Remanded in Kuje Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri 24 July 2009
Hamman Bello Hammed, Ex-
CG Customs, Hannatu Sulaiman, Tajudeen Olalere, Lukman Hussain, Popular Foods Ltd & Silver Maritime shipping coy ltd
Fed. High Court , Lagos. Justice Ramat Mohammed
Arraigned on 46 state counts. Plea taken Matter adjouned to Nov for trial but FG filed to withdraw charges.
N2.5 Billion
Suspects Remanded in Kirikiri & Ikoyi Prisons and later granted bail by court in 2009.
Commenced by Waziri on 14th Aug. 2009
Professor Innocent Chuka
Okonkwo, fmr VC Imo state Univ, Uchechi Nwugo & Wilfred Uwakwe
Fed.High Court, Abuja. Justice Mohammed Garba Umar
Arraigned on 14 state counts. Plea taken Adjourned to Nov for trial.
N145 Million
Suspects Remanded in Kuje Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri on July 30,2009
Dr (Mrs) Cecilia Ibru
(Fmr CEO, Oceanic Bank PLC)
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 25 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N160.2 Billion
Suspect convicted and jailed for 18 Months on Friday October 8, 2010 by Justice Dan Abutu of FHC, Lagos. To forfeit assets and funds worth over N191 billion.
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Dr Bartholo-mew (Fmr CEO, Union Bank PLC) Bassey Ebong, Henry Onyemem & Niyi Albert Opeodu (Ex- Directors, UBN)
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 28 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N187.1 Billion
Suspects remanded in EFCC custody, But granted bail on 14/9/09
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Raymond Obieri,(Fmr
Chairman,Inter continental Bank PLC Hyacinth Enuha, Ikechi Kalu, C.A Alabi, Samuel Adegbite, Isyaku Umar, Sanni Adams.
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 18 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N131.8 Billion
Suspects remanded in EFCC custody, But granted bail on 14/9/09
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Sebastian Adigwe, Peter
Ololo, Falcon Securities Ltd
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 36 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N277.3 Billion
Suspects remanded in Prison custody, But granted bail on 15/9/09
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Okey Nwosu
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 11 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N95.1 Billion
Suspects remanded in Prison custody, But granted bail on 15/9/09
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Alex Nkenchor, Ex-Bank Manager, Ebi Odeigah & GMT Securities & Assets Nig Ltd.
Lagos High Court, Ikeja. Justice M.O Obadina
Arraigned on 10 state counts. Plea taken and suspects still remanded in prison custody pending consideration of bail application.
N860 Million
Suspects remanded in ikoyi prison. Bail application for consideration Oct20
Commenced by Waziri on Oct 13 2009
Francis Atuche, Former CEO,
Bank PHB
Fed High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on a 26 count charge. Plea taken. Suspect challenged charges but court upheld charges. Matter set for trial in Nov.
N80 billion
Suspect remanded and later granted bail by court. His assets frozen.
Commenced by Waziri on Oct 28, 2009.
Adamu Abdullahi,
Former Gov of Nasarawa state.
Fed High Court, Lafia, Nasarawa. Justice I.N. Buba
Arraigned on 149 count charge. Suspect granted bail by court. Case slated for trial in Oct.
N15 billion
Suspect on court bail.
Commenced by Waziri on March 3, 2010.
Attahiru Bafarawa,
former governor of Sokoto state.
Sokoto state High Court.
Arraigned on 47 count charge. Matter stalled HC due to accused application at appeal court.
N15 billion
Suspect remanded in prison custody and later granted bail by court. Case slated for trial.
Commenced by Waziri on December 16, 2009.
Francis Okokuro,
Bayelsa state Accountant General
Fed. High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 6 count charge. Matter stalled due to accused application for stay.
N2.4 billion
Suspect remanded in prison custody till April 13.
Commenced by Waziri on March 24, 2010
Dr Charles Silva Opuala
Fed High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 6 count charge. Matter stalled due to accused application for stay
N2.4 billion
Suspect arraigned and remanded in Kuje prison custody on April 13 till he meets bail conditions
Commenced by Waziri on March 24, 2010
Chief Osa Osunde(fmr
Chairman Afribank), and 4 directors: Jibrin Isah, Isa Zailani, Chinedu Onyia and Henry Arogundade
Fed.High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 33 count charge. Matter adjourned to Nov for trial
N55 billion
Suspects arraigned on April 21, 2010. Remanded in EFCC custody and later granted bail by the court.
Commenced by Waziri on April 21, 2010
Mr Oladele Shittu, CEO of
Credence Investment
Fed High Court, Kaduna. Justice Mohd Shuaibu
Arraigned on 136 count charge. Matter adjourned for trial
N139 million
Suspect arraigned on March 23 2010. Remanded in Kad prison custody till July 12, 2010.
Commenced by Waziri on March 23, 2010
Mr Sunday Akinyemi,
fmr CEO Texas Connection Ferries
Lagos High Court. Justice J Adebajo
Arraigned on 30 count charge. Application for bail rejected, trial commenced.
N90 million
Suspect arraigned March 11 & April 11, 2010.Remanded in prison.
Commenced by Waziri on March 11, 2010
Hon. T Faniyi, Albert Soje &
others
FHC, Abuja.Justi ce Adamu Bello/Justic e David Okorowa
Arraigned on 30 count charge(14,10 &6), trial commenced.
N3 billion
Suspects arraigned on April 1 2010. Remanded in prison custody and later granted court bail.
Commenced by Waziri on April 1, 2010
Adeniyi Elumaro,
Rakiya Mamman, Integrated Capital Services Ltd
FCT High Court. Justice Olukayode Adeniyi
Arraigned on 22 count charge
N405 million
Suspects arraigned on Aug 12, 2010. Granted bail by court and remanded in prison pending when they meet conditions
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 12, 2010.
Dr Erastus Akingbola, fmr
MD/CEO, IBplc
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos.Justi ce Mohd Idris
Arraigned on 22 count charge
N27 billion.
Suspect arraigned on Aug 13. Remanded in custody till Ag 23.
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 13, 2010
SaniLulu, & 3 other sacked
NFF board members
FHC, Abuja.Justi ce Donatus Okorowa
Arraigned on 10 counts. Case adjourned till Oct 5, 2010 for trial.
N1.5 billion
Suspects arraigned Sept 7, remanded in prison till 13th when court released them on bail
Commenced by Waziri on Sept 7, 2010
10.24.2010
NAME
TRIAL COURT
CASE STATUS
AMOUNT INVOLVED
STATUS OF SUSPECT (S)
REMARK
Ayo Fayose (Former
Governor of Ekiti State)
Fed. High Court, Lagos. Case now transferred to Ekiti for trial after the accused opposed his trial in Lagos
Arraigned on 51 state counts. Plea already taken but defence lawyer keeps filing frivolous applications for long adjournments to frustrate and prolong trial.
N1.2 Billion
granted bail by court since 2007
Inherited Case filed since 17th Dec.2006
Adenike Grange
(Former Minister of Health)
FCT. High Court Maitama
Arraigned on 56 state counts. Plea already taken. Defence lawyer often seeks long adjournments to prolong trial. Matter adjourned to Oct 27
N300
million
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Case filed since 2nd April.2008
Joshua Dariye (Former
Governor Plateau State)
FCT High Court Gudu
Arraigned on 23 state counts. Plea already taken but defence lawyer challenged court jurisdiction.But Appeal court threw out application and case now fixed for continuation of trial on Oct. 27, 2010.
N700 Million
granted bail by court since 2007
Inherited Case filed since 13th July 2007
Saminu Turaki (Former
Governor, Jigagwa State)
FCT. High Court Maitama
Arraigned on 32 state counts. Plea already taken but defence lawyer challenged court jurisdiction. Case stalled at HC while seeking stay of trial at appeal court.It is part of usual attempt to frustrate and prolong trial
N36 Billion
granted bail by court since 2007
Inherited Case filed since 13th July 2007
Orji Uzor Kalu (Former
Governor, Abia State)
Fed. High Court Maitama
Arraigned on 107 state counts. Plea already taken but defence lawyer raised preliminary objection against charges. Lost at trial court but has gone on appeal to stay trial. It is part of usual attempt to prolong trial.
N5 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Case filed since 11th June 2007
James Ibori (Former
Governor, Delta State)
Federal High Court Asaba
Arraigned on 170 state counts.Defence lawyer challenged Kaduna Fed. court jurisdiction, lost at trial court but won at appeal court.Case re-assigned by CJ to Asaba FHC. Without taking plea, suspect applied to quash charges, prosecution opposed application but trial judge quashed the charges Dec. 19. EFCC filed appeal Dec. 23, 2009 and Jan.8, 2010.
N9.2 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Fresh charges filed In August 2009
Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello
(Serving Senator)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 56 state counts.Plea already taken but case stalled as defence lawyer filed to challenge charges.Application pending for determination.This is part of frivolous applications to delay trial .
N10 Million
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Case filed since April 2 2008
Lucky Igbinedion
(Former Governor of Edo State)
Fed. High Court, Enugu
Arraigned on 191 state counts. Applied for plea bargain &Convicted but EFCC has appealed the judgment to seek for stiffer sanctions.
N4.3 Billion
Case determined 2008
Inherited Case filed on 23rd Jan.2008
Gabriel Aduku (Former
Minister of Health)
FCT. High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 56 state counts.Court ruled on no case against suspect
N300 Million
Case determined in 2008
Inherited Case filed on April 2nd 2008
Jolly Nyame (Former
Governor of Taraba State)
Fed. High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 41 state counts. Plea already taken and trial begun after all applications filed by the accused to stall trial have been dismissed by the supreme court. Trial fully commenced and on-going at FCT HC.
N1.3 billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Inherited Case filed since 13th July 2007
Chimaroke Nnamani
(Former Governor of Enugu State)
Fed. High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 105 state counts. Plea already taken but case is stalled as defence lawyer filed to transfer case to another judge on allegation of bias against trial judge even as counsel has again filed to challenge court jurisdiction.This is equally an attempt to prolong trial.
N5.3 Billion
granted bail by court since 2007
Inherited Case filed since 11th Dec.2007
Michael Botmang
(Former Governor of Plateau State)
Fed. High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 31 state counts. Plea already taken but trial stalled due to suspect’s ailment, on dialysis.
N1.5 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri on 18th July 2008
Roland Iyayi (Former
Managing Director of FAAN)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 11 state counts. Plea already taken.Trial on-going
Court taking prosecution witnesses testimony
N5.6 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
Nyeson Wike (Serving Chief of Staff to Governor of Rivers State)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on state counts. Court quashed charges.EFCC already appealed judgement. Appeal pending at appeal court.
N4.670 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri on Oct.9 2008
Eider George (Austrian
Business man)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 11 state counts. Plea already taken and trial on-going. Prosecution witnesses undergoing cross-examination. Court granted suspect leave to travel abroad for medical treatment.
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
Kenny Martins (Police
Equipment Fund)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 28 amended state counts. Plea already taken and trial on- going. Witnesses under cross- examination. Continuation of trial fixed for Nov.9
N774 Million
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
13 Filipinos (Charged for
Oil Bunkering)
Fed. High Court, Benin
Arraigned on state counts, convicted at the close of trial and sentenced to 65 Years altogether
N300 Million
EFCC returns to court to seek forfeiture of vessel used for oil theft.
Commenced by Waziri in 2009
6 Ghanaians (Charged for
Oil Bunkering) and Nigerian accomplice.
Fed. High Court, Benin
Arraigned on state counts and trial Commenced. Prosecution closed case, matter adjourned for defence to close.
N250 Million
granted bail by court in 2009. All 7 accused sentenced to 112 years imprisonment April 30, 2010
Commenced by Waziri in June 2009
Patrick Fernadez
(Indian Buisnessman)
Fed. High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 56 state counts. Plea already taken and trial commences Nov.
N32 Billion
granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in 2009
Prof. Babalola Borishade
(Former Minister of Aviation)
FCT High Court, Maitama
Arraigned on 11 state counts. Plea already taken and trial on-going (N5.6 billion)
Prosecution witnesses under cross-examination.
N5.6 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
Boni Haruna (Former
Governor, Adamawa State)
Fed. High Court Maitama
Arraigned on amended 28 state counts. Plea taken. Adoption of motion slated for Nov
N254 Million
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in 2008
Femi Fani-Kayode
(Former Minster of Aviation)
Fed. High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 47 state counts . Plea taken but case stalled as a result of trial court’s refusal to admit e-print of suspect’s statement of account as evidence. EFCC won appeal against the decision. Defence on appeal at supreme court.
N250 Million
granted bail by court in 2008
Commenced by Waziri in 2008
Prince Ibrahim Dumuje (Police Equip-ment Fund)
FCT High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 28 amended state counts. Plea taken and trial on-going. Prosecution witnesses under cross-examination. Continuation fixed for Nov.9
N774 Million
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri in June 2008
Bode George (Chieftain of
the ruling party, PDP)
Fed. High Court. Lagos
Arraigned on 68 state counts. Plea taken and trial concluded. Accused convicted and sentenced to 2 years. Convict on appeal while serving jail term.
N100 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008. Has been in jail after conviction in Oct 2009.
Commenced by Waziri in Dec.08
Rasheed Ladoja (Former
Governor of Oyo State)
Fed. High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 33 state counts. Plea taken and trial on- going
Prosecution witnesses slated for cross-examination in Nov.
N6 Billion
granted bail by court since 2008
Commenced by Waziri
Four Snr Zenith Bank Managers
Fed. High Court, Port Harcourt
Arraigned on 56 state counts. Plea taken but case stalled over an injunction by Rivers State Govt, which is a party in the case to stop EFCC. Injunction being challenged at appeal court
N3.6 Billion
Granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri
Mallam Nasir El-Rufai
(Former Minister of Federal Capital Territory)
Fed. High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 8 state counts.Suspect charged for corruption and abuse of office.Plea taken and case adjourned for trial but accused challenged jurisdiction of court as a ploy to delay trial. Case adjourned.
Suspect at large but returned to the country. Interrogated on May 4, 2010 and arraigned on May 12
Commenced by Waziri in 2009.
Sen. Nicholas Ugbade, (Serving Senator) Hon. Ndudi Elumelu Hon. Mohammed Jibo,
Hon. Paulinus Igwe,(Serving Members of House of Rep)
Dr Aliyu Abdullahi (Serving Fed.Perm.Sec) Mr. Samuel Ibi. Mr. Simon Nanle,
Mr. Lawrence Orekoya, Mr Kayode Oyedeji,
Mr. A. Garba Jahun
FCT High Court Abuja
(This is the Rural Electrification Agency Case involving a serving Senator, 3 serving members of the House of Representatives , the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power and other high profile public officers)
Arraigned on 158 state counts. Plea taken while prosecution has filed more charges against suspects. Suspects filed to quash charges but application thrown out by court.
N5.2 Billion
Remanded in Prison Custody and later granted bail Court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in May 2009
Prof B.Sokan, Molkat
Mutfwang, Michael Aule, Andrew Ekpanobi, (All Directors) Alexander Cozman(MD,In termarket Ltd). (This is the UBEC case where high profile public servants connived with an American, Alexander Cozman) to defraud the Government.
Federal High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 64 state counts. Plea taken while more charges were filed against suspects due to appearance of Prof Sokan. Matter adjourned to Nov 9 for suspects to take plea on amended charges
N636 Million
Suspects remanded in prison custody and later granted bail by court in 2009.
Commenced by Waziri on May 19 2009
Dr Ransome Owan, Mr. Abdulrahman Ado, Mr. Adulrasak Alimi, Mr. Onwuamaeze Iloeje, Mrs Grace Eyoma, Mr. Mohammed Bunu,
Mr. Abimbola Odubiyi
Federal High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 196 state counts. Plea taken. Trial billed to commence while more charges were filed against suspects. Further hearing slated for Oct 29. But the FG has withdrawn charges against the accused persons who were consequently discharged by the court on Sept 16,2010
N1.5 Billion
granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri on April 22 2009
Tom Iseghohi, Muhammed Buba, Mike
Okoli,(GM&M anagers of Transcorp Group PLC)
Fed. High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 32 state counts. Plea taken. Matter adjourned for commencement of trial Nov 9.
N15 Billion
Suspects Remanded in Kuje Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in May 2009
Dr Albert Ikomi, rtd perm sec, his firm, satelite town dev co Ltd
Fed. High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos
Arraigned on 4 state counts. Plea taken and Matter adjourned for hearing
N43 Million
Suspects Remanded in Ikoyi Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in 2009
Dr Yuguda Manu Kaigama,
Chairman, Taraba State Civil Service Commission
Taraba State High Court 5, Jalingo
Arraigned on 37 state counts . Plea taken and Matter stalled as suspect dropped dead.
N17 Million
Suspect remanded in prison custody. Co-accused, Yakubu Danjuma Takun, at large.
Commenced by Waziri on Oct.10 2009
Chief Joe Musa, DG
Natioanl Gallery of Art, Olusegun Ogumba, Chinedu Obi, Oparagu Elizabeth, Kweku Tandoh, (All Directors of NGA).
FCT High Court, Lugbe (Justice Olukayode Adeniyi)
Arraigned on 12 state counts . Plea taken and defence lawyer filed applications to stall trial but lost the bid. Matter adjourned for trial Nov 19/20, 2010
N1.012 Billion
Suspects Remanded in Kuje Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri in July 20 2009
Dr Dayo Olagunju,
Ex. Sec. National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult & Non-Formal Education. Joshua Alao, Alice Abang, Jibrin Waguna, Ahmed Abubakar, Shehu Abdullahi, Dr Victoria King- Nwachukwu, Adamu Khalid, Moses Oseni, Francis Awelewa & Bashir Suleiman
Fed. High Court, Abuja. Justice Anuli Chikere
Arraigned on 17 state counts.Plea taken and Matter adjourned for commencement of trial Oct 22, 2010
N479 Million
Suspects Remanded in Kuje Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri 24 July 2009
Hamman Bello Hammed, Ex-
CG Customs, Hannatu Sulaiman, Tajudeen Olalere, Lukman Hussain, Popular Foods Ltd & Silver Maritime shipping coy ltd
Fed. High Court , Lagos. Justice Ramat Mohammed
Arraigned on 46 state counts. Plea taken Matter adjouned to Nov for trial but FG filed to withdraw charges.
N2.5 Billion
Suspects Remanded in Kirikiri & Ikoyi Prisons and later granted bail by court in 2009.
Commenced by Waziri on 14th Aug. 2009
Professor Innocent Chuka
Okonkwo, fmr VC Imo state Univ, Uchechi Nwugo & Wilfred Uwakwe
Fed.High Court, Abuja. Justice Mohammed Garba Umar
Arraigned on 14 state counts. Plea taken Adjourned to Nov for trial.
N145 Million
Suspects Remanded in Kuje Prison and later granted bail by court in 2009
Commenced by Waziri on July 30,2009
Dr (Mrs) Cecilia Ibru
(Fmr CEO, Oceanic Bank PLC)
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 25 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N160.2 Billion
Suspect convicted and jailed for 18 Months on Friday October 8, 2010 by Justice Dan Abutu of FHC, Lagos. To forfeit assets and funds worth over N191 billion.
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Dr Bartholo-mew (Fmr CEO, Union Bank PLC) Bassey Ebong, Henry Onyemem & Niyi Albert Opeodu (Ex- Directors, UBN)
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 28 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N187.1 Billion
Suspects remanded in EFCC custody, But granted bail on 14/9/09
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Raymond Obieri,(Fmr
Chairman,Inter continental Bank PLC Hyacinth Enuha, Ikechi Kalu, C.A Alabi, Samuel Adegbite, Isyaku Umar, Sanni Adams.
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 18 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N131.8 Billion
Suspects remanded in EFCC custody, But granted bail on 14/9/09
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Sebastian Adigwe, Peter
Ololo, Falcon Securities Ltd
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 36 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N277.3 Billion
Suspects remanded in Prison custody, But granted bail on 15/9/09
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Okey Nwosu
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos. Justice Dan Abutu
Arraigned on 11 state counts. Plea taken and case adjourned to Nov for trial
N95.1 Billion
Suspects remanded in Prison custody, But granted bail on 15/9/09
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 31 2009
Alex Nkenchor, Ex-Bank Manager, Ebi Odeigah & GMT Securities & Assets Nig Ltd.
Lagos High Court, Ikeja. Justice M.O Obadina
Arraigned on 10 state counts. Plea taken and suspects still remanded in prison custody pending consideration of bail application.
N860 Million
Suspects remanded in ikoyi prison. Bail application for consideration Oct20
Commenced by Waziri on Oct 13 2009
Francis Atuche, Former CEO,
Bank PHB
Fed High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on a 26 count charge. Plea taken. Suspect challenged charges but court upheld charges. Matter set for trial in Nov.
N80 billion
Suspect remanded and later granted bail by court. His assets frozen.
Commenced by Waziri on Oct 28, 2009.
Adamu Abdullahi,
Former Gov of Nasarawa state.
Fed High Court, Lafia, Nasarawa. Justice I.N. Buba
Arraigned on 149 count charge. Suspect granted bail by court. Case slated for trial in Oct.
N15 billion
Suspect on court bail.
Commenced by Waziri on March 3, 2010.
Attahiru Bafarawa,
former governor of Sokoto state.
Sokoto state High Court.
Arraigned on 47 count charge. Matter stalled HC due to accused application at appeal court.
N15 billion
Suspect remanded in prison custody and later granted bail by court. Case slated for trial.
Commenced by Waziri on December 16, 2009.
Francis Okokuro,
Bayelsa state Accountant General
Fed. High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 6 count charge. Matter stalled due to accused application for stay.
N2.4 billion
Suspect remanded in prison custody till April 13.
Commenced by Waziri on March 24, 2010
Dr Charles Silva Opuala
Fed High Court, Abuja
Arraigned on 6 count charge. Matter stalled due to accused application for stay
N2.4 billion
Suspect arraigned and remanded in Kuje prison custody on April 13 till he meets bail conditions
Commenced by Waziri on March 24, 2010
Chief Osa Osunde(fmr
Chairman Afribank), and 4 directors: Jibrin Isah, Isa Zailani, Chinedu Onyia and Henry Arogundade
Fed.High Court, Lagos
Arraigned on 33 count charge. Matter adjourned to Nov for trial
N55 billion
Suspects arraigned on April 21, 2010. Remanded in EFCC custody and later granted bail by the court.
Commenced by Waziri on April 21, 2010
Mr Oladele Shittu, CEO of
Credence Investment
Fed High Court, Kaduna. Justice Mohd Shuaibu
Arraigned on 136 count charge. Matter adjourned for trial
N139 million
Suspect arraigned on March 23 2010. Remanded in Kad prison custody till July 12, 2010.
Commenced by Waziri on March 23, 2010
Mr Sunday Akinyemi,
fmr CEO Texas Connection Ferries
Lagos High Court. Justice J Adebajo
Arraigned on 30 count charge. Application for bail rejected, trial commenced.
N90 million
Suspect arraigned March 11 & April 11, 2010.Remanded in prison.
Commenced by Waziri on March 11, 2010
Hon. T Faniyi, Albert Soje &
others
FHC, Abuja.Justi ce Adamu Bello/Justic e David Okorowa
Arraigned on 30 count charge(14,10 &6), trial commenced.
N3 billion
Suspects arraigned on April 1 2010. Remanded in prison custody and later granted court bail.
Commenced by Waziri on April 1, 2010
Adeniyi Elumaro,
Rakiya Mamman, Integrated Capital Services Ltd
FCT High Court. Justice Olukayode Adeniyi
Arraigned on 22 count charge
N405 million
Suspects arraigned on Aug 12, 2010. Granted bail by court and remanded in prison pending when they meet conditions
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 12, 2010.
Dr Erastus Akingbola, fmr
MD/CEO, IBplc
FHC, Ikoyi, Lagos.Justi ce Mohd Idris
Arraigned on 22 count charge
N27 billion.
Suspect arraigned on Aug 13. Remanded in custody till Ag 23.
Commenced by Waziri on Aug 13, 2010
SaniLulu, & 3 other sacked
NFF board members
FHC, Abuja.Justi ce Donatus Okorowa
Arraigned on 10 counts. Case adjourned till Oct 5, 2010 for trial.
N1.5 billion
Suspects arraigned Sept 7, remanded in prison till 13th when court released them on bail
Commenced by Waziri on Sept 7, 2010
Tuesday 12 October 2010
UK Banks Aid Corruption in Nigeria – Report
UK Banks Aid Corruption in Nigeria – Report
By Emele Onu, with agency report, 10.11.2010
A report by Global Witness yesterday said British banks, aided by lax regulation by the authoritative are exacerbating corruption in Nigeria.
According to Reuters News, the graft watchdog said Britain needs to enforce money laundering regulations more strictly after some of its leading high street banks accepted millions of pounds in deposits from corrupt Nigerian politicians.
Global Witness said in a 40-page report that five banks had taken millions of pounds between 1999 and 2005 from two former Nigerian governors accused of corruption, but had failed sufficiently to investigate the customers or the source of their funds.
Global Witness exposes the corrupt exploitation of natural resources and international trade systems, to drive campaigns that end impunity, resource-linked conflict, and human rights and environmental abuses.
It said Britain's Barclays, NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and HSBC, and Switzerland's UBS, might not have broken the law but had helped to fuel corruption in Nigeria.
HSBC said the allegations were "misguided". The four other banks and Britain's regulator, the Financial Services Authority (FSA), declined to comment. RBS took over NatWest in 2000.
"The FSA needs to do much more to prevent banks from facilitating corruption. As yet, no British bank has been publicly fined or even named by the regulators for taking corrupt funds, whether willingly or through negligence," Global Witness said in the report, adding, "This is in stark contrast to the United States, where banks have been fined hundreds of millions of dollars for handling dirty money."
Global Witness acknowledged that British regulation might have moved on since 2005, but said there were still gaps in the system, particularly regarding funds from "politically exposed persons" (PEPs) deemed to pose a higher money laundering risk.
"As a bank that has been at the very forefront of developing global PEP guidance over the last decade, we are deeply disappointed with these misguided allegations," Reuters quoted a spokesman for HSBC as having said when asked about the report.
"Rest assured, rigorous and robust compliance procedures were followed diligently. To ignore this is to ignore the facts," he said.
Barclays, HSBC and UBS are all members of the Wolfsberg Group, an international body set up in 2000 to try to improve global anti-money laundering procedures.
An industry source said HSBC was one of the few banks to have had a PEP policy in place since 2001, before regulators introduced any such requirement.
Global Witness said its findings were based on court documents from cases brought in London by the Nigerian government to get funds returned that it said had been stolen by two former state governors, namely Diepreye Alamieyeseigha of Bayelsa state and Joshua Dariye of Plateau state.
It said some of the funds accepted by some of the banks were the proceeds of bribe payments.
“Alamieyeseigha was accused of corruption in 2005 when he was caught with almost a million pounds in cash in his London home, and was briefly jailed in Nigeria after pleading guilty to embezzlement and money laundering charges two years later.
“Dariye was arrested in 2004 in London and was found to have purchased properties worth millions of pounds even though his legitimate earnings amounted to the equivalent of 40,000 pounds a year,” Reuters recalled.
Britain's coalition government, said Reuters, plans to revamp its financial sector, scrapping the FSA by the end of 2012 and replacing it with a regulator that will operate as a subsidiary of the Bank of England; a new white-collar crime agency; and a new consumer protection and markets authority.
By Emele Onu, with agency report, 10.11.2010
A report by Global Witness yesterday said British banks, aided by lax regulation by the authoritative are exacerbating corruption in Nigeria.
According to Reuters News, the graft watchdog said Britain needs to enforce money laundering regulations more strictly after some of its leading high street banks accepted millions of pounds in deposits from corrupt Nigerian politicians.
Global Witness said in a 40-page report that five banks had taken millions of pounds between 1999 and 2005 from two former Nigerian governors accused of corruption, but had failed sufficiently to investigate the customers or the source of their funds.
Global Witness exposes the corrupt exploitation of natural resources and international trade systems, to drive campaigns that end impunity, resource-linked conflict, and human rights and environmental abuses.
It said Britain's Barclays, NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and HSBC, and Switzerland's UBS, might not have broken the law but had helped to fuel corruption in Nigeria.
HSBC said the allegations were "misguided". The four other banks and Britain's regulator, the Financial Services Authority (FSA), declined to comment. RBS took over NatWest in 2000.
"The FSA needs to do much more to prevent banks from facilitating corruption. As yet, no British bank has been publicly fined or even named by the regulators for taking corrupt funds, whether willingly or through negligence," Global Witness said in the report, adding, "This is in stark contrast to the United States, where banks have been fined hundreds of millions of dollars for handling dirty money."
Global Witness acknowledged that British regulation might have moved on since 2005, but said there were still gaps in the system, particularly regarding funds from "politically exposed persons" (PEPs) deemed to pose a higher money laundering risk.
"As a bank that has been at the very forefront of developing global PEP guidance over the last decade, we are deeply disappointed with these misguided allegations," Reuters quoted a spokesman for HSBC as having said when asked about the report.
"Rest assured, rigorous and robust compliance procedures were followed diligently. To ignore this is to ignore the facts," he said.
Barclays, HSBC and UBS are all members of the Wolfsberg Group, an international body set up in 2000 to try to improve global anti-money laundering procedures.
An industry source said HSBC was one of the few banks to have had a PEP policy in place since 2001, before regulators introduced any such requirement.
Global Witness said its findings were based on court documents from cases brought in London by the Nigerian government to get funds returned that it said had been stolen by two former state governors, namely Diepreye Alamieyeseigha of Bayelsa state and Joshua Dariye of Plateau state.
It said some of the funds accepted by some of the banks were the proceeds of bribe payments.
“Alamieyeseigha was accused of corruption in 2005 when he was caught with almost a million pounds in cash in his London home, and was briefly jailed in Nigeria after pleading guilty to embezzlement and money laundering charges two years later.
“Dariye was arrested in 2004 in London and was found to have purchased properties worth millions of pounds even though his legitimate earnings amounted to the equivalent of 40,000 pounds a year,” Reuters recalled.
Britain's coalition government, said Reuters, plans to revamp its financial sector, scrapping the FSA by the end of 2012 and replacing it with a regulator that will operate as a subsidiary of the Bank of England; a new white-collar crime agency; and a new consumer protection and markets authority.
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