The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arraigned former National Security Adviser (NSA) Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retired) and a former Director at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on charges related to the alleged misappropriation of N33.2 billion designated for arms procurement.
This development follows the reassignment of the case by the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Justice Hussein Baba-Yusuf, who had previously presided over the matter before his elevation.
The charges stem from accusations that the defendants diverted substantial funds intended for the acquisition of military equipment to combat the insurgent group Boko Haram. The prosecution had earlier amended the charges, reducing the number of defendants by dropping Shuaibu Salisu from the case. On May 11, 2018, the remaining defendants were re-arraigned on a 32-count charge encompassing allegations of criminal breach of trust, misappropriation of public funds, and other related offenses.
Despite the gravity of the allegations, the trial has experienced significant delays over the years. The prosecution has managed to present only one witness, and the case has faced multiple adjournments, hindering progress toward a resolution. The re-arraignment aims to rejuvenate the judicial process and ensure that the defendants are held accountable if found guilty.
This case is part of a broader investigation into the alleged $2 billion arms procurement scandal, often referred to as "Dasukigate," which involves claims of widespread corruption and embezzlement within Nigeria's defense sector. The outcome of this trial is anticipated to have significant implications for the country's ongoing efforts to combat corruption and promote transparency within government institutions