Niger State former governor, Babangida Aliyu is in big trouble.

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has approached the Court of Appeal to set aside a no-case ruling granted on December 7, 2023 to him and former chairman of the PDP in the state, Tanko Beji, by a lower court over an alleged N4 billion fraud.

EFCC Spokesperson, Dele Oyewale said:

“The commission filed a fresh seven-count charge, accusing Beji, Aliyu, and former Commissioner for Environment and Chief of Staff, Umar Mohammed Nasko, of conspiracy, abetment, and criminal breach of trust before Justice Aliyu Mayaki (now retired).”

“The matter was later reassigned to Justice Abdullahi Mukailu and the EFCC called 11 witnesses, tendered over 400 exhibits and closed its case. However, the three defendants made a no-case submission before the court and His Lordship on December 7, 2023, granted the prayers in favour of Aliyu and Beji and directed Nasko to open his defence.”

The EFCC, disagreeing with the court’s decision on Aliyu and Beji’s no-case submission, submitted a Notice of Appeal on January 10, 2024, firmly believing that a prima facie case had been proven against them.

“For the EFCC, the road has not closed. The Commission is proceeding in its appeal against Aliyu and Beji at the Court of Appeal with all its evidence against them. The Commission will continue to discharge its duties in line with its mandate of tackling all forms of economic and financial crimes, without fear or favour.”