The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has re-arraigned George Turnah for money laundering and fraud. 

Mr. Turnah is a former special adviser to Dan Abia, ex-Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission. 

The anti-corruption agency, via its verified Twitter handle, said Mr. Turnah and others involved in the alleged fraud of N2.89 billion were re-arraigned before Justice Mohammed Turaki in Port Harcourt.

The defendants included Ebis Orubebe and Uzogor Silas Chidiebere. They were arraigned alongside El-Godams Global Services Ltd, Turnoil and Gas Nigeria Ltd, Kolo Creek Petroleum Development Ltd, Celtic Pride Consult and Events Ltd, Yenagoa Mall Ltd, the Incorporated Trustees of Concerned Niger Delta Initiative, Akara Boro Marine Services Ltd, Sugarland Integrated Farms Nig Ltd, and Geohan Telecommunications Nig. Ltd. 

They all pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The EFCC alleged that Mr. Turnah and other defendants in November 2014, took obtained N708,500,000 under “a false pretence” from the NDDC to provide 300 youths and women with jobs “which is contrary to Section 15(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 as amended and punishable under 15 (3) of the same Act.” 

Mr. Turnah was also accused of receiving $1m from Umar Lawal of Hakuri Global Concept without going through a financial institution “which is prohibited according to Section 1(a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 and punishable under Section 16(2)(b) of the same Act.” 

The case was adjourned until March 15, 16, and 17, 2021 for continuation of trial.