The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned a former minister of aviation, Stella Oduah, before a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja over an alleged N2.4 billion fraud.
Oduah was arraigned alongside Gloria Odita on a five-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and criminal breach of trust.
The defendants were accused of conspiring in January 2014 to fraudulently obtain N2.47 billion from the Federal Ministry of Aviation through two companies under claims described by the prosecution as false.
EFCC alleged that the funds were presented as payments for technical supervision and security and logistics support services.
The charges further accused Oduah, while serving as minister, of dishonestly misappropriating the funds meant for a security contract.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The trial judge, Hamza Muazu, granted Oduah and Odita bail on self-recognition and ordered them to deposit their travel documents with the court, directing that they must seek permission before travelling.
The case was adjourned until February 12 for the commencement of trial.
RN
