Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arraigned a former councillor of the Kaduna South Local Government Area, Hon. Theophilus Madami, before a Kaduna State High Court over allegations of obtaining by false pretence, criminal breach of trust, and criminal misappropriation. The re-arraignment took place on Monday, June 22, 2026, before Justice A. Isiaka at the State High Court in Kaduna.
The anti-graft agency told the court that the defendant allegedly engaged in transactions that led to the unlawful diversion of funds and property entrusted to him by unsuspecting victims. The EFCC further alleged that Madami obtained money and goods through false representations and failed to fulfill the obligations attached to the transactions. According to reports by Independent Nigeria and other news outlets, the charges were read to the defendant at Monday’s proceedings, and he pleaded not guilty to all the counts preferred against him by the Commission.
Following his plea, counsel for the prosecution requested a trial date, while the defence lawyer urged the court to consider applications made on behalf of the accused. After listening to both parties, Justice Isiaka adjourned the matter to a later date for the commencement of hearing and further proceedings, as reported by Independent Nigeria.
This is not the first time the former councillor has faced legal action. In October 2019, the EFCC arrested Madami for offences bordering on alleged criminal breach of trust and misappropriation of funds to the tune of N11,080,000. At the time, he was a serving councillor representing Kakuri Hausa Ward in Kaduna South Local Government. He was later arraigned on November 14, 2019, on charges of criminal breach of trust and obtaining by trick and was remanded in prison custody, according to Vanguard and Daily Nigerian reports.
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to the diligent prosecution of financial and economic crimes, stressing that the case reflects its resolve to ensure accountability and justice for victims of fraud. “We will continue to ensure that all persons alleged to have engaged in economic and financial crimes are brought to justice in accordance with the law,” the Commission said, while maintaining that the defendant remains innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
The case highlights the EFCC's sustained efforts to tackle corruption and financial crimes at all levels of government, including local councils. As the legal proceedings continue, the defendant remains on bail pending the commencement of his trial.
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