Ex-Aviation Minister Stella Oduah Docked over Alleged N5 Fraud

Former Minister of Aviation and ex-senator, Stella Oduah, has been arraigned by the Federal Government over allegations of fraud amounting to ₦5 billion.

Oduah was brought before Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday, to face a five-count charge filed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).

The charges border on conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence, and advance fee fraud.

According to the court filings, Oduah was accused of fraudulently obtaining ₦2.4 billion from the Federal Ministry of Aviation in January 2014 through a company identified as Broad Waters Resources.

Prosecutors allege she falsely claimed the money was meant for “technical supervision” under the ministry.

The Federal Government maintains that the transactions were illegal and amounted to a criminal diversion of public funds.

Oduah, who served as Aviation Minister under the Goodluck Jonathan administration, pleaded not guilty to all charges presented during the arraignment.

Her legal team is expected to file applications challenging the competence of the charges and seeking bail, while the prosecution has indicated readiness to present witnesses and documents to support its case.

Justice Muazu adjourned the matter to allow both parties prepare for the commencement of full trial.

The former minister has been the subject of multiple investigations in recent years, with the latest charges marking a significant escalation in the government’s anti-corruption drive.