EFCC arraigns three in Maiduguri over alleged N42 million contract fraud

The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned three individuals before the Federal High Court in Maiduguri over an alleged N42 million contract fraud.

The defendants, Aisha Alkali Wakil, Sa’idu Tahiru Daura, and Prince Lawal Shoyede, were arraigned on Thursday before Justice Jude K. Dagat on a two-count amended charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence.

According to the EFCC, the accused persons allegedly obtained N42 million from ABAKS Ventures Nigeria Limited under the pretext of executing a sub-leased contract linked to the Complete Care and Aid Foundation, a non-governmental organisation.

The commission further alleged that the defendants falsely claimed the contract had been awarded to one Sani M. Adamu of Sani Smart Global Ventures.

During court proceedings, Wakil and Shoyede pleaded not guilty to the charges, while Daura pleaded guilty.

Following their pleas, prosecution counsel N.T. Iko requested that Daura be sentenced accordingly and also sought an adjournment to begin trial against the other defendants.

Justice Dagat adjourned the case until June 25, 2026, for sentencing and the commencement of trial.

The court also ordered that the defendants be remanded at the Maiduguri Maximum Correctional Facility pending further proceedings.