The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ruled that former Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, and his ex-Finance Commissioner, Omodachi Okolobia, must stand trial in connection with the alleged misappropriation of N3.1 billion.
Ruling, Justice Peter Lifu dismissed the duo’s no-case submission and stated that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had presented sufficient evidence to warrant a full defense.
According to the judge, the testimonies of nine prosecution witnesses and several documents submitted before the court provided grounds for the defendants to respond to the allegations brought against them.
“The defendants need to throw some light on some of the allegations made against them in the interest of justice and fair hearing. It’s therefore my view that the two defendants have a case to answer. I so hold.
“I hold that the prosecution has successfully established a prima facie case against them as there are some evidence before the court to proceed with the trial,” he ruled.
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Consequently, the court directed the defendants to open their defense and set September 22 and 26, 2025, for continuation of proceedings.
The EFCC is prosecuting Suswam and Okolobia on an 11-count amended charge.
The case revolves around funds allegedly misused after the sale of shares owned by the Benue State Government, handled by Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPCL).
According to the EFCC, the funds, amounting to N3.1 billion, were proceeds from shares sold through Elixir Securities Limited and Elixir Investment Partners Limited. The anti-graft agency claims the funds were not used for their intended purpose.
The prosecution formally closed its case on May 14, 2025, after presenting its ninth and final witness, Mr Ape Sunday.
The matter is expected to resume in September, when the defense will begin presenting its case.
