Court ‘orders’ EFCC to remand Ngilari over ‘N167m fraud’

Nathan Musa, justice of the Adamawa state high court, on Wednesday ruled that James Ngilari, former governor of Adamawa state, should be remanded in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleged violation of procurement laws in awarding a N167 million contract.

EFCC announced this in a statement released on Wednesday in Yola by Gbenga Aroyehun, its spokesman for the Gombe zonal office.

The EFCC had instituted a 19-count charge against Ngilari; Ibrahim Welye, his secretary to the state government; and Sanda Jonathan Lamurde, former commissioner of finance and budget; for violating procurement laws in awarding a contract worth N167 million to one El-Yadi motors limited.

The contract was for the supply of 25 units of Toyota Corolla.

“The EFCC accused them of conspiracy, lack of No Objection Certificate, no competitive bidding and others in the procurement process for the contract,” read the statement.

“The three pleaded not guilty and their lawyers applied for bail on their behalf which the prosecution opposed. The court ruled that they should be remanded in custody while he adjourned until today (Thursday) for ruling on bail application.”