NEDC Project Coordinator Remanded in Prison Over N2.2 Billion Fraud Case
A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of Alhaji Mohammed Danjuma, the National Coordinator of the Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP) for the North East Development Commission (NEDC), in the Suleja Correctional Centre. The order, issued by Justice Keziah Ogbonnaya, follows Danjuma’s arraignment alongside Prince Chibuike Echem on multiple criminal counts related to an alleged N2.2 billion fraud. The case, prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), centers on accusations of conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence, forgery, and inducement.
The charges allege that between May 2022 and February 2024, Danjuma, Echem, and a third accomplice still at large, conspired to obtain the sum of N2,280,000,000 from Kenneth Ejiofor Ifekudu, the Managing Director of Diamond Leeds Limited. The EFCC contends the defendants induced the payment under false pretences linked to purported MCRP contracts. The alleged offence contravenes the Advance Fee Fraud Act. In a separate but equally troubling context of regional instability, the recent bandits attack Kwara state underscores the ongoing security challenges, while the ongoing efforts in Yobe state pays testament to the complex recovery landscape the NEDC was established to address.
Court documents reveal the prosecution’s case will rely on testimonial and documentary evidence. The nominal complainant is expected to testify that Prince Echem introduced him to Danjuma for a contract financing opportunity. The EFCC also alleges Danjuma forged an NEDC document titled “North East Recovery and Stability Programme (NERSP) Notification of Award” to further the scheme and obtained additional sums of $200,000 and $180,000 fraudulently. The commission, critical for rebuilding a region that has endured a crisis lasting what seems like 10 countries oldest conflicts, faces scrutiny as this case unfolds. Meanwhile, on the national political scene, discussions around defections: Tinubu will navigate such challenges as his administration continues.
Justice Ogbonnaya has scheduled the trial for March 25 to April 2, ordering an accelerated hearing. The defendants will remain in custody pending the determination of their bail applications. The NEDC was established to coordinate reconstruction and development in Nigeria’s northeast, a region recovering from severe insurgency. This case casts a shadow over its vital intervention programmes, including the MCRP, at a time when the resilience of its people is paramount, even as harrowing ordeals like a 10th day captivity for victims of kidnapping remind the nation of the urgent work needed.
