N4 Billion Theft: Court Releases Obiano's Passport For Medical Trip

Willie Obiano

Ex-Governor Willie Obiano's motion is granted by the court, and his passport is released for a medical trip.

Former Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano's request for the interim release of his passport to allow him to travel for medical reasons has been granted by Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Obiano suffered a blow on Thursday, April 18, when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) denied his request to drop the N4 billion theft accusations that had been brought against him.

The trial was postponed by the court until June 27, at which point Obiano was ordered to return his passport after his medical vacation.

Remember that on January 24, he was charged with embezzlement of Anambra State security monies.

Obiano's lawyer, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), defended his client by claiming that there was no prima facie case against him and that the EFCC had jurisdiction to prosecute him. He asked the court to dismiss the charges on the grounds of procedural abuse.

Justice Ekwo, however, decided that as security votes are funded by the Federation Account and are therefore a constitutional matter, the EFCC was entitled to jurisdiction over the case.

The court addressed the proof of evidence, explaining that since the Federal High Court has summary jurisdiction over criminal cases, the defendant's submission of proof of evidence was not considered required.

The judge further pointed out that the Supreme Court had ruled in favor of the EFCC in a prior appeal filed by the government of Anambra State on a related issue.

Obiano's lawyer requested a modification to the bail terms after the verdict, citing the defendant's medical need and suggesting a 60-day window for care.

The EFCC voiced concerns about the trial's possible delays but did not oppose the application.