Ex-Minister Stella Oduah Begins Refund of Funds Linked to ‘N2.4bn Fraud’ Case
Former Aviation Minister, Stella Oduah, has taken steps to refund part of the N2.4 billion linked to alleged fraud charges filed against her.
Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Rotimi Oyedepo, told the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja, on Thursday that the refund process has begun.
Oduah, who served as Aviation Minister from July 2011 to February 2014, and Gloria Odita were arraigned on December 10 on a five-count charge of alleged fraud, obtaining by false pretence, and criminal breach of trust. Both pleaded not guilty.
Oyedepo said the defendants had initiated the return of some funds to the government but did not specify the exact amount.
“The defendants have made a move to refund a certain amount of the money into the government coffers,” he told the court.
Counsel to Oduah, Onyechi Ikpeazu, and counsel to Odita, Favour Osunaya, confirmed the development but declined to provide further details.
Presiding Judge Hamza Muazu adjourned the case until March 26 for a progress report on the refund discussions.
The development follows reports that both defendants applied for plea bargaining with the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).
Oyedepo said Oduah filed the application under section 270 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, which allows defendants to negotiate in criminal cases.
Plea bargaining can involve pleading guilty to reduced charges or agreeing to return the proceeds of a crime in exchange for concessions.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
