A Bureau De Change operator testifies in the trial of ex-Governor Obiano, revealing he received N416 million in just eight months as part of the investigation.
A Bureau De Change (BDC) operator, Ayuba Tanko, provided testimony on Wednesday in the ongoing money laundering trial of former Anambra Governor, Mr. Willie Obiano.
He stated that from April to December 2017, a total of N416 million was deposited into a company account he managed on behalf of others.
Ayuba testified before Justice Inyang Ekwo at the Federal High Court in Abuja, under the guidance of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Slyvanus Tahir, SAN.
As the fifth prosecution witness, he noted that the N416 million was received in installments and converted to an equivalent of $1.137 million.
Ayuba, who identifies as a forex trader dealing in various currencies, mentioned that he operated through two companies, Sauki Bureau De Change and Zigaziga Trading and Company Ltd.
He was summoned by the EFCC in 2023 regarding the account of Zigaziga Trading and Company Ltd held at a commercial bank.
When questioned about the total amount received during that period, he confirmed it was N416 million, which he converted to $1,137,000.
He clarified that he had no other business dealings with the Anambra government under Obiano. During cross-examination, Obiano’s lawyer, Onyechi Ikpeazu, inquired if Ayuba had any direct dealings with the former governor, to which Ayuba responded negatively.
The prosecution also presented three bankers who testified regarding the alleged money laundering.
Following the testimonies and cross-examinations, Justice Ekwo scheduled the next hearing for February 24, 25, and 26, 2025, to continue the trial.
Peoplesmind
