The former Governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano, was arraigned before trial Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, where he faced a nine-count money laundering charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Obiano pleaded not guilty to the charges read to him during the court proceedings. As a result, he was granted administrative bail by the anti-graft agency on the condition that his international passport be seized and that he seek permission from the court before traveling outside the country.
Furthermore, the court requested that the EFCC provide the details of those who acted as sureties for Obiano. The case has been adjourned until March 4th, when his trial is set to commence.
It should be noted that the former governor was initially arrested on March 17, 2022, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, as he was preparing to board a flight to Houston, United States of America. This arrest came shortly after he left office as governor.
Among the charges brought against Obiano are allegations that he engaged in financial improprieties during his tenure as Anambra State governor, specifically between February 7, 2018, and February 18, 2019, in Abuja.
The EFCC is committed to ensuring that corruption and financial crimes are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in Nigeria. The trial of Willie Obiano will be closely watched, as it serves as another step towards upholding accountability among public officials.
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