By Adesakin Adefemi
A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja, has discharged former Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah, and her co-defendant, Gloria Odita, following the restitution of funds to the Federal Government.
The trial judge, Justice Hamza Muazu, struck out the charge against Oduah and Odita after the prosecution confirmed recovery of the alleged proceeds.
The Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), told the court that the government had received the value of the subject matter of the charge. The prosecution amended the charge to reflect only two companies Sobora International Limited and Global Offshore Marine Limited effectively removing Oduah and Odita as defendants.
Counsel to Oduah, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), and counsel to Odita, Wale Balogun (SAN), urged the court to withdraw the charges against their clients.
The judge clarified that the court record would not reflect any conviction against Oduah and Odita, noting that they only appeared as representatives of the companies.
The matter was briefly stood down to allow parties to resolve disagreements on the mode of representation. Upon resumption, both prosecution and defence agreed that only the companies would be reflected in the charge, with representatives appearing on their behalf.
The Federal Government subsequently arraigned the companies on two counts bordering on fraud, with Oduah standing as a representative of the companies. The companies pleaded guilty to the amended charges, and the court convicted them, ordering the restitution of N1.2bn to the Federal Government, as well as the forfeiture of N780m recovered during the investigation.
The case has sparked widespread interest, with many calling for accountability and transparency in government dealings. The court’s decision marks a significant development in the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
The restitution of funds is seen as a key factor in the court’s decision to discharge Oduah and Odita. The case highlights the importance of accountability and the rule of law in Nigeria.
The outcome of the case has been welcomed by many, who see it as a step towards justice and accountability. The court’s decision is a reminder that no one is above the law, and that corruption will not be tolerated.
The Federal Government has been urged to continue its efforts to recover stolen assets and bring perpetrators to justice. The case is a testament to the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and promoting transparency.
