Former Benue Electoral Chief and 10 Others Arraigned Over ₦1.1bn Fraud Allegations
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially arraigned a former high-ranking official. Dr. Tersoo Loko, the erstwhile Chairman of the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission, faced the court today. He appeared before Justice Idris Mohammed at the Federal High Court sitting in Makurdi. Alongside him, ten other individuals are facing serious criminal charges. The prosecution team alleges that the group diverted ₦1.1 billion in public funds.
These funds were originally meant for the conduct of local government elections in Benue State. However, the EFCC claims the defendants misappropriated the money for personal use. The legal action follows months of intense investigation into the commission’s financial activities. Specifically, the anti-graft agency filed a 28-count charge against the primary suspects. These charges include money laundering, criminal conspiracy, and outright embezzlement of state resources.
During the court session, the lead prosecutor detailed how the alleged fraud occurred. He claimed the defendants used several shell companies to siphon the electoral funds. Furthermore, the agency discovered multiple suspicious bank transfers during their forensic audit. Despite the gravity of the accusations, Dr. Loko and his co-defendants pleaded not guilty. Their legal representatives immediately filed applications for bail on behalf of their clients.
The defence team argued that the suspects had cooperated throughout the initial inquiry. They also insisted that their clients would not flee the country if released. Nevertheless, the EFCC counsel requested stringent conditions to ensure their presence at future trials. After hearing both sides, the judge eventually granted the defendants bail. However, they must provide significant financial bonds and reputable sureties to regain their freedom.
This arraignment has sparked significant debate regarding the integrity of sub-national electoral bodies. Many citizens now demand greater transparency in the funding of local polls. The court has adjourned the matter to late March for the commencement of the trial. The EFCC remains optimistic about securing a conviction based on the gathered evidence. For now, the public awaits the next phase of this high-profile legal battle.