Nigeria’s federal authorities on Wednesday formally arraigned former Aviation Minister Stella Oduah at a High Court in the nation’s capital, Abuja, on charges relating to an alleged ₦2.469 billion fraud. The case, brought by the government, underscores renewed efforts to hold officials accountable for long-standing corruption allegations.
The charges come under a five-count indictment presented by prosecutors. Oduah and a co-accused, Gloria Odita, are accused of conspiring in 2014 to secure funds from the Federal Ministry of Aviation through two companies — Broad Waters Resources Nigeria Ltd and Global Offshore Marine Ltd — by falsely representing that the money was for “Technical Supervision” and “Security Integrated and Logistics Support Services.” The prosecution alleges these representations were bogus and that the funds were obtained under false pretences.
Specifically, it is alleged that ₦839,780,738.90 was taken on January 13, 2014, and a further ₦1,629,250,000 on February 12, 2014. In two additional counts, Oduah — who held the ministerial office at the time — is accused of misappropriating contract funds initially awarded to another company, 1-Sec Security Nigeria Ltd, and diverting them without lawful authority. These actions are claimed to be in breach of her official duties.
Both defendants denied the charges, entering pleas of not guilty. In court, Oduah’s lead counsel, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), emphasized that Oduah voluntarily returned from the United States to respond to the summons. The defence team requested bail on self-recognition. The prosecution, represented by Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Attorney-General of the Federation, did not object.
Presiding Judge Hamza Muazu granted bail to both defendants on the condition they surrender their travel documents and secure court permission before any foreign travel. The trial has been scheduled to commence on February 12, 2026.
This latest development is just the most recent in a series of previous allegations of corruption and mismanagement against Oduah. Over the years, she has faced multiple charges — including a separate alleged ₦5 billion fraud and money-laundering case — though past arraignments were repeatedly postponed. The delay has drawn criticism from anti-corruption advocates who argued that justice was being stalled.
Observers note that bringing Oduah to court could signal a renewed commitment by the federal government to tackle high-level financial crimes, particularly involving former senior officials. It may also serve as a litmus test for the judiciary’s willingness to see lengthy corruption cases through to conclusion — despite prior delays and complications.
As of now, both Oduah and Odita remain free on bail, pending trial. With a court date set early next year, all eyes will be on how the prosecution presents its evidence and whether the defence will succeed in dismantling the government’s case. The outcome could have broader implications for accountability and anti-corruption efforts across Nigeria’s political and administrative elite.
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