BY Ebunoluwa Olafusi
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has described the acquittal of Robert Azibaola, a cousin of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, as “unfortunate”.
An Abuja federal high court had discharged and acquitted Azibaola of the $40 million laundering charges filed against him by the EFCC.
He was charged alongside Stella, his wife, and their company, One Plus Holdings Nigeria Limited for the alleged diversion of $40 million meant for the supply of tactical communication kits for special forces.
Nnamdi Dimgba, the judge, had ruled that no credible evidence was given to establish the allegation of money laundering against Azibaola.
But in a statement, Tony Orilade, spokesman of EFCC, said the anti-graft agency will study the judgement thoroughly and take necessary steps to appeal the court’s judgement.
“The EFCC expresses concern that despite the weight of evidence brought before the court and witnesses presented, Justice Dimgba held that, the prosecution must show directly how the defendant took possession of funds and knew that it forms part of proceeds of corruption”.
“Invariably, the Commission’s legal team will be studying the judgement thoroughly and will be taking necessary actions to appeal it as we hope that the appellate court shall view the merit of the prosecution and do justice to the case.”
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