Six Kwara SUBEB Officials Remanded for N96 Million Fraud

 The Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned six officials from the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) over allegations of a N96 million fraud. The officials were brought before Justice Suleiman Akanbi of the State High Court in Ilorin on charges of criminal breach of trust and misappropriation of public funds.

The individuals arraigned include:

• Ahmed Husain Olarewaju, Director of Finance and Supply

• Omole Omololu John, Controller of Finance and Accounts

• Fatai Oyerinde, Coordinator of the Salary Unit

• Mujeeb Ibrahim, Executive Officer, Account and Salary Schedule

• Salami Temitope Bashir, Staff of the Salary Unit

• Dauda Aweda Quozim, Staff of the Salary Unit

According to the EFCC, the defendants conspired between 2018 and 2020 to divert N96 million meant for the implementation of educational projects in Kwara State. The funds, allocated for infrastructural development and educational materials, were allegedly siphoned through fictitious contracts and inflated invoices.

During the court session, the prosecution presented evidence linking the accused to the fraudulent activities. The defense counsel requested bail for the defendants, citing their long service and ties to the community. However, Justice Akanbi ordered that the accused be remanded at the Nigerian Correctional Centre in Ilorin, pending the hearing of their bail applications.

The news of the alleged fraud has sparked outrage among citizens, particularly educators and parents, who feel betrayed by the actions of the officials. A teacher in Ilorin lamented, “These funds were meant to improve our schools and provide quality education for our children. It’s disheartening to see them diverted for personal gain.”

The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to combating corruption, especially in the public sector. In a statement, the commission emphasized that public servants entrusted with managing resources must be held accountable to ensure transparency and integrity in governance.

This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces in curbing corruption and the continuous efforts required to promote accountability within public institutions.