The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a series of legal actions against several individuals across Edo and Borno states, centering on allegations of salary fraud, money laundering, and obtaining money by false pretenses. These arraignments reflect the commission’s intensified efforts to curb financial misconduct within both public institutions and the private sector.

Salary Duplication Fraud at the University of Benin

In Benin City, the EFCC’s Zonal Directorate has arraigned Segun Bode Adedeji before Justice E. G. Adekanmbi of the Edo State High Court. Adedeji, a staff member of the University of Benin, faces a four-count charge related to the fraudulent misappropriation of funds totaling ₦3,285,396. According to intelligence gathered by the commission, Adedeji allegedly exploited his position by simultaneously drawing salaries from two public institutions: the University of Benin and the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Benin City.

Money Laundering Charges in Maiduguri

In a separate proceeding in Maiduguri, Abubakar Muhammad was arraigned before Justices Shehu Umaru Adamu and Amina Mustapha Ibrahim on charges of money laundering and criminal conversion involving ₦650 million. The commission alleges that between 2021 and 2026, the defendant converted these substantial funds through multiple bank accounts under the guise of a fraudulent mining investment scheme. Following his "not guilty" plea, Justice Ibrahim granted him bail in the sum of ₦300 million, requiring two sureties, one of whom must possess property valued at ₦400 million. The case is adjourned to June 11 and 15, 2026.

False Pretenses Case Involving CEO

Additionally, the Maiduguri Zonal Directorate arraigned Bilal Muhammad, the Chief Executive Officer of GDF Home Sales Enterprises Ltd, before Justice Amina Mustapha Ibrahim. He is accused of obtaining ₦500,000 from one Adamu Abubakar under the false pretense of facilitating the purchase of a tricycle, commonly known as a "Keke Napep." The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the court has ordered his remand at the Maiduguri Maximum Correctional Facility, adjourning the matter to June 22, 2026, for further hearing.