Ex-NDDC director and others acquitted in N3.6bn money laundering case
A Federal High Court in Lagos has discharged and acquitted former NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Tuoyo Omatsuli, Francis Momoh, and two companies of all charges in a high-profile N3.6bn money laundering case. Justice Daniel Osiagor ruled that the prosecution failed to prove the allegations against the defendants. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had brought a 46-count charge, but the court found no credible evidence to support the claims. This marks the second time the defendants have been acquitted in connection with this case.
What we know
- Tuoyo Omatsuli, Francis Momoh, Don Parker Properties Limited, and Building Associates Limited were discharged and acquitted of a 46-count money laundering charge.
- Justice Daniel Osiagor stated that the prosecution did not establish the essential elements of the alleged offences.
- The EFCC based its investigation on what it called credible intelligence but failed to present substantial evidence or any petition against the defendants.
- The defendants had previously been acquitted in 2020, and their re-arraignment followed a Court of Appeal decision that reversed the earlier acquittal.
- After reviewing all evidence and testimonies, the court found the prosecution did not prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
