A Federal High Court in Abuja, on Monday, convicted and sentenced Chukwunyere Nwabuoku, former acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGoF), to a 72-year jail term without an option of fine.

Justice James Omotosho, in a judgment, held that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had been able to prove the nine-count money laundering charge beyond reasonable doubt. The judge convicted Nwabuoku on all counts, sentencing him to eight years imprisonment per count, which totals 72 years. The sentences are to run concurrently.

The case against Nwabuoku stemmed from his tenure as Director of Finance and Accounts in the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021, where he was accused of diverting public funds. Justice Omotosho described the act of diverting funds meant for security and defence as “appalling,” while commending the EFCC for a detailed prosecution.

The court noted that the testimony of the 9th prosecution witness, which indicated that Nwabuoku had voluntarily refunded part of the siphoned funds—over N200 million during investigation—was not challenged by the defence.

Nwabuoku was initially suspended as the acting Accountant-General of the Federation in May 2022 by the then Minister of Finance, following his invitation by the EFCC over alleged financial irregularities. He was later arraigned on January 15, 2025, on a nine-count amended charge and was granted bail in the sum of N500 million with two sureties.

The EFCC filed the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/240/2024 against Nwabuoku as the sole defendant.