In connection to a N20 billion fraud case involving Dr. Dennis Akura, the Special Adviser to Benue State Governor on Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, civil rights activist and Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN) secretary, Mr. Uchenna Mojekwu, has been remanded in prison by the Chief Magistrate Court 1 in Makurdi, Benue State.
During the court proceedings, the Chief Magistrate, Kelvin Mbanongun, declined an oral bail application for Mojekwu and instructed his lawyer to file a formal bail application.
Following a petition against Dr. Dennis Akura, Mojekwu was detained by the newly appointed Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Mr. Yabaneth Steve Hassan, and subsequently arraigned before the court by the police.
Earlier this year in February, GICN, led by Mojekwu, lodged a petition with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleging that funds exceeding N20 billion were authorized and withdrawn by Alia’s government through Akura from Benue local government accounts. The petition included supporting evidence like signed letters from council chairmen and directors.
Furthermore, the anti-corruption group forwarded a copy of the petition to the Department of State Services (DSS) and the House Committee on Public Petitions, urging various agencies to investigate the matter.
Reports indicate that on Thursday, Mojekwu was brought before Chief Magistrate Court 1, where preparations were made for his immediate detention in prison. A correctional services vehicle was on standby at the court premises for his transportation.
According to a source, “Arrangements have been made for him to be remanded in prison immediately. A correctional services vehicle is already present on the court premises for his transfer.”
Another source mentioned, “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is awaiting the adoption of the petition for the commencement of its investigation.”
Earlier, on February 27, 2024, the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions had summoned Akura to respond to queries regarding the alleged missing N20 billion.