A Federal High Court sitting in Apo, Abuja, has granted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission the right to amend charges against Olu Agunloye, a former Minister of Power.
Agunloye is facing seven counts of corruption and alleged fraudulent award of the Mambilla Power Project contract, worth $6 billion.
Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie delivered the ruling on Thursday, allowing the EFCC’s request to modify its charges and ordering Agunloye to take his plea on the amended charges.
In the ruling, the judge said, “The application is hereby granted as prayed on the face of the motion paper, and the defendant is hereby ordered to take his plea on the altered or amended charge.” Justice Onwuegbuzie clarified that the amendment was not intended to harm the defendant or cause him injustice, noting that such changes are allowed under the law before a final judgment is given.
The court adjourned the matter to February 3, 2025, for Agunloye to take his plea.
The EFCC, represented by prosecution counsel Abba Mohammed (SAN), argued that the amendment was permitted under Sections 216 and 217 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015. The Commission cited the Court of Appeal’s decision in *Bovoa v FRN & Anor (2017)* to support its position.
However, Agunloye’s lawyer, Adeola Adedipe (SAN), opposed the EFCC’s request. He argued that the Commission must formally seek the court’s approval before making such amendments.
Justice Onwuegbuzie dismissed the defense counsel’s objection, stating that the EFCC’s request complied with legal provisions and did not overreach the defendant.
The case against Agunloye stems from allegations of corruption and improper handling of the Mambilla Power Project contract during his tenure as Minister of Power. The $6 billion project was intended to address Nigeria’s electricity challenges but has been marred by controversies and delays.
The EFCC’s efforts to amend the charges signal its commitment to pursuing justice in the case, which has drawn significant public attention.
The trial will continue on February 3, 2025.
