The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed 14 new charges against former Kwara State Governor Abdulfattah Ahmed and ex-Commissioner for Finance Ademola Banu, alleging a N5.78 billion fraud.

The charges, filed before Justice Mahmud Abdulgafar of the Kwara State High Court, accuse the duo of diverting and misappropriating public funds meant for projects and security in the state.

Specific allegations include:

– Ahmed spending N1.6 billion meant for security on private jets

– Conspiring with Banu to steal funds for teachers’ salaries and infrastructure

– Failure to fill asset declaration forms

Ahmed and Banu pleaded not guilty to all charges. Their lawyers, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN) and Gboyega Oyewole (SAN), argued for bail, citing their clients’ good record since 2019 and the bailable nature of the offenses.

Justice Abdulgafar granted bail in the sum of N100 million with two sureties each, one of whom must be a serving or retired permanent secretary.

The case was adjourned until December 4 and 5, 2024, for further hearing.

This development follows the withdrawal of the case from the Federal High Court, Ilorin, due to the transfer of the trial judge, Justice Evelyn Anyadike.