The Federal Government has arraigned former Aviation Minister, Stella Oduah, alongside Gloria Odita before an Abuja High Court on a five-count charge of alleged fraud, obtaining by false pretence, and criminal breach of trust involving about N2.47 billion.

Prosecutors alleged the defendants conspired to fraudulently obtain the funds from the Ministry of Aviation through Broad Waters Resources Nigeria Ltd and Global Offshore Marine Ltd, claiming the payments were for technical supervision and security logistics services. They are also accused of dishonestly misappropriating the same sums meant for a contract awarded to 1-Sec Security Nigeria Ltd.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty. Their lawyers sought bail, noting Oduah’s voluntary return to Nigeria and previous administrative bail granted by the EFCC.

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Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, did not oppose bail but urged the court to fix a firm date for trial.

Justice Hamza Muazu granted Oduah and Odita bail on self-recognisance and ordered them to deposit their travel documents and seek court approval before any travel. The case was adjourned for commencement of hearing.

Source: Vanguard