Appeal Court Upholds Acquittal of Former Air Chief in N22.8 bn Fraud Case

The Court of Appeal has confirmed the dismissal of all charges against former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Amos, who was accused of misappropriating N22.8 billion during his tenure. The judgment, delivered on Tuesday, affirmed the earlier ruling of a lower court that found insufficient evidence to sustain a conviction.

Amos had been arraigned in 2022 on allegations that he diverted funds meant for the procurement of aircraft parts and other defense equipment. Prosecutors claimed the money was funneled into personal accounts and shell companies, but the defense argued that the transactions were properly authorized and accounted for within the ministry’s financial procedures.

In its ruling, the appellate panel noted that the prosecution failed to produce key documents and witnesses that could link the former air chief directly to the alleged fraud. The judges emphasized that the burden of proof rests with the state, and speculation cannot substitute for concrete evidence.

The decision has sparked a mix of reactions across the country. While some observers view the acquittal as a vindication of due process, others express disappointment, citing the need for accountability in public office. Civil society groups have called for a review of the investigative process to ensure that similar cases are not compromised by procedural gaps.

Amos, who retired from the Nigerian Air Force in 2021, thanked the judiciary for upholding the rule of law and reiterated his readiness to cooperate with any further inquiries. He maintained that his service record and contributions to national security remain his true legacy, and he hopes the matter will now be laid to rest.