In a shocking revelation, former Senator Andy Uba, his daughter Crystal Uba, and other associates have been accused of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that duped former House of Representatives member Doris Uboh of N400 million. The scheme allegedly revolved around false promises to secure Uboh’s appointment as the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), leveraging connections to then-First Lady Aisha Buhari.
Fraud Allegations and Legal Proceedings
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has filed charges against Senator Uba, Crystal Uba, and a third defendant, Benjamin Etu. The two-count charge, filed in the Federal High Court in Abuja under case number FHC/ABJ/CR/538/2024, accuses the defendants of conspiracy and obtaining money under false pretenses. A fourth suspect, Hajiya Fatima, believed to be connected to Aisha Buhari, is reportedly on the run.
Court documents indicate the alleged fraud occurred in 2022, with Uba and his associates claiming they could facilitate the NDDC MD appointment for N400 million. The funds, transferred via a bureau de change, were reportedly laundered into dollars for Uba.
Arrests and Refunds
Sources close to the investigation revealed that Uba’s daughter, Crystal, was apprehended while attempting to withdraw a portion of the illicit funds. Meanwhile, Hajiya Fatima, who reportedly received N200 million, has refunded N50 million but remains at large.
Investigators also linked Uba to other high-profile fraud cases. Notably, Aliko Dangote allegedly filed a complaint against Uba for misusing his name in another scam. In a separate incident, a victim reportedly stabbed Uba after being swindled out of N2 billion under the guise of securing a federal appointment during the Buhari administration.
Court Battles and Recent Developments
Senator Uba initially secured a court order from Justice S. B. Belgore of the FCT High Court to block his arrest. However, a petition led to the dismissal of the protective order, paving the way for his trial.
In September 2024, Justice Belgore struck out another case filed by Uba for lack of diligent prosecution. The case, involving multiple parties, was dismissed after Uba failed to comply with court directives issued earlier in the year.
Implications of the Fraud
This case has raised serious questions about corruption and abuse of power within Nigeria’s political elite. The involvement of prominent figures, including alleged ties to the former First Lady, underscores the magnitude of the allegations.
As the trial progresses, the nation watches closely, anticipating justice for the victims and accountability for those involved.
