Ex‑Governor Obiano’s ₦4 Billion Money‑Laundering Case Suspended Indefinitely

A federal court in Abuja has put the money‑laundering trial of former Anambra State governor Willie Obiano — accused of misappropriating ₦4 billion — on hold indefinitely.

The request to suspend proceedings was made by prosecutors from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), who asked the court to wait for the return of the original trial judge, Inyang Ekwo. They noted that nine witnesses had already testified before him.

At the resumed session, the court observed that the case was appearing for the first time before the new judge, Mohammed Umar, prompting the EFCC to apply for a “sine die” adjournment. Obiano’s defence counsel raised no objection.

With the trial suspended indefinitely, there is currently no set date for resumption. The development means that all proceedings — including those involving prior witnesses — will remain on hold until the original judge returns or the court reassigns the case.

Observers say this pause — coming after repeated delays due to the judge’s suspension — underscores the challenges the judicial process faces in high‑profile corruption cases in Nigeria.