EFCC Scores Big as Judge Dismisses Suswam’s No-Case Bid in Multi-Billion Naira Scandal

According to IReporter Online, the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has dismissed a no-case submission filed by former Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, in a case involving the alleged misappropriation of N3.1 billion in public funds.

Justice Peter Lifu ruled on Wednesday that Suswam and his former Commissioner for Finance, Omodachi Okolobia, must enter their defence in the ongoing trial. The decision followed the closure of the prosecution’s case, which included testimonies from nine witnesses.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting the duo on an 11-count amended charge, bordering on alleged diversion of funds derived from the sale of Benue State Government shares held through the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited. The funds were reportedly laundered through Elixir Securities Limited and Elixir Investment Partners Limited.

In their defence, the accused sought to have the charges dismissed, arguing that the prosecution had failed to establish a prima facie case. However, Justice Lifu ruled that the evidence presented by the EFCC was sufficient to warrant a response from the defendants.

“The court is not at this stage required to evaluate the credibility of witnesses,” the judge stated, emphasizing that the focus is whether a case exists that merits explanation. He maintained that fair hearing principles demand that the defendants offer clarifications on the allegations before the court.

Accordingly, the court rejected and dismissed the no-case plea, directing the defendants to open their defence. The matter has been adjourned to September 22 and 26, 2025, for continuation of trial.