EFCC Arraigns Nigeria Peace Corps Commandant, Director of Finance Over Alleged N46 Million Misappropriation

The EFCC has arraigned the Nigeria Peace Corps Commandant and Director of Finance over alleged N46 million misappropriation.

 The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned the Commandant of the Nigeria Peace Corps, Dickson Akon, and the Corps’ Director of Finance, Omolala Aminat Ahmed, at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Abuja, on allegations of criminal misappropriation of funds. The arraignment, conducted on Thursday, December 11, 2025, underscores ongoing concerns over financial accountability in government agencies.

The defendants face a two-count charge relating to the alleged diversion of funds intended for the procurement of badges for the Corps. The first count alleges that in 2024, Akon and Ahmed “agreed among themselves to do an illegal act, to wit criminal misappropriation,” an offence under Section 96 of the Penal Code Laws of the FCT.

The second count charges the pair with dishonestly converting N46 million out of N60 million meant for the execution of a badge supply contract for their personal use. The EFCC claims this action deprived the Peace Corps of essential resources and contravened financial management laws.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. Following their pleas, the prosecution, led by counsel Khalid Sanusi, requested that the court fix a date for the commencement of trial.

Justice H. B. Yusuf adjourned the matter to February 25, 2026, for trial. The judge granted bail to both defendants in the sum of ₦5 million each, with one surety in like sum. The court stipulated that the sureties must be reputable individuals and residents of Abuja.

The case comes amid heightened scrutiny of financial practices within government institutions. Analysts note that the alleged diversion of N46 million—a substantial portion of the funds allocated for badges—could undermine the Corps’ operations and erode public trust in public institutions.

The Nigeria Peace Corps, established to support security agencies and deliver community services, relies on strict adherence to procurement and financial protocols. Alleged financial misconduct within the Corps raises broader concerns about transparency and accountability in public agencies.

Civil society organizations and anti-corruption advocates have closely monitored the case, highlighting its potential to set a precedent for the prosecution of financial misconduct in public service. Legal experts suggest that the trial may become a landmark case in enforcing accountability among senior officials in uniformed agencies.

While on bail, the defendants are required to comply with court conditions, with the risk of revocation of bail if any terms are breached. The presiding judge emphasized the importance of ensuring that both defendants remain within the court’s jurisdiction pending trial.

As the February trial date approaches, the focus will turn to the prosecution’s evidence, expected to include financial records, procurement documents, and witness testimonies. The defense is anticipated to present counter-evidence to refute the allegations. The outcome of this trial is likely to influence how similar cases are handled in the future and could reinforce public confidence in Nigeria’s judicial and anti-corruption systems.

This development reinforces the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to investigate and prosecute corruption in public institutions. It also serves as a reminder of the critical importance of transparency and proper financial management in government agencies entrusted with public resources.