The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to prosecute the former governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano, on Wednesday, January 24, before Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja. The charges against Obiano involve alleged money laundering, totaling N4,008,573,350, and he will face nine counts in the upcoming trial.

The decision to prosecute the ex-governor follows EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede's commitment to reviewing high-profile cases, particularly those involving former governors and ministers. An authoritative source disclosed that Obiano is accused of transferring N4,008,573,350 from security votes into various accounts, converting the money into dollars at different times, and receiving it back in cash.

EFCC's lead counsel, Slyvanus Tahir, SAN, will lead a team of eight lawyers in prosecuting the case against the former governor. Among the charges, Obiano is accused of indirectly transferring funds from the Anambra State Government Security Vote Account into accounts belonging to entities with no business relationship with the state government. The funds were allegedly dissipated for purposes unrelated to the security affairs of Anambra State.

EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the impending arraignment and stated that Obiano would face money laundering and corruption charges. Obiano's legal troubles began with his arrest at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport, Lagos, on March 17, 2022, as he attempted to board a flight to the United States.

The arrest occurred shortly after he left office as governor, losing his immunity from arrest and prosecution. Obiano had been under EFCC scrutiny for alleged misappropriation of public funds, including N5 billion from Sure-P and N37 billion from the security vote, withdrawn in cash. Some of the funds were purportedly diverted to support political activities in the state, according to EFCC statements at the time of his arrest.