former governor of Adamawa, Murtala Nyako
A former Governor of Adamawa State, retired Rear Adm. Muritala Nyako, is considering an out-of-court settlement in a N29 billion alleged fraud case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
During a court hearing on Friday, the prosecuting counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, informed the court that both parties were engaged in discussions to amicably settle the case.
“By the next adjourned date, we should be able to resolve all the details of the settlement so that my lordship can dispose of this matter,” Jacobs said.
Nyako’s counsel, Mr. Michael Aondoaka, SAN, confirmed that discussions had reached an advanced stage for an out-of-court settlement.
“I am positive that this matter will be resolved amicably,” Aondoaka said.
*Settlement not a plea bargain*
Aondoaka clarified that the proposed settlement was not a plea bargain but rather a means to settle the matter amicably, considering Nyako’s advanced age. “Plea bargain creates the impression of guilt.
The admiral is 81 years old; he is the age mate of the likes of retired Gen. Badamosi Babangida, and he cannot continue to be made to face this again,” Aondoaka explained.
*Case adjourned*
Justice Peter Lifu adjourned the matter until July 18 for a report on the settlement. Nyako and his co-defendants are being tried on 37 counts of money laundering to the tune of N29 billion.
The EFCC alleged that the defendants diverted funds from the Adamawa treasury between January 2011 and December 2014, using companies as conduit pipes to illegally divert funds into private accounts.
*10-Year rial*
The trial has been ongoing for 10 years, starting on July 8, 2015, before Justice Evoh Chukwu.
The case had to start afresh twice due to the demise of Justice Chukwu and the elevation of Justice Okon Abang to the Court of Appeal.
