Court Acquits Winifred Oyo-Ita of N570m Fraud Charges

The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, discharged and acquitted Winifred Oyo-Ita, the former Head of Civil Service, along with eight co-defendants of charges related to N570 million money laundering. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had filed the charges, but the court ruled that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against the defendants after a six-year trial.

Justice Omotosho noted that the EFCC's allegations lacked credible evidence and were largely speculative, based on weak investigations. Essential elements required to prove money laundering were not established, and there was no proof that the funds in question were procured through unlawful activities.

The court also highlighted that contract payments involved were duly approved and properly executed. The EFCC did not present sufficient documentation to support their claims, leading to the dismissal of all 18 counts against the defendants.