EFCC Seeks Judge Disqualification in Terrorism Case

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a petition seeking the disqualification of Justice Moham Umar from presiding over a terrorism financing case pending in the Abuja division of the Federal High Court. The case involves Yakubu Adamu, a former branch manager of Polari Bank PLC in Bauchi State, and three others, who face ten counts of conspiracy and money laundering related to alleged terrorism financing.

The defendants are accused of conducting cash transactions worth 9.7 million naira without using financial institutions. The EFCC claims that the funds were used to finance terrorist activities, including the establishment of an ethnic militia in Nasarawa State.

Justice Umar had previously granted bail to the defendants despite the EFCC's objections, which led to the agency losing confidence in his ability to handle the case. The case has been adjourned sine die as Justice Umar temporarily stepped aside, awaiting a decision from the Chief Judge regarding the EFCC's petition.