Mambilla Fraud Trial: Witness Defends Key Government Document in Agunloye Case

The trial of former Minister of Power, Olu Agunloye, over the alleged fraudulent award of the $6 billion Mambilla Power Project contract continued on Thursday with a prosecution witness defending the authenticity of a key government document presented as evidence by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The proceedings took place before Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Apo, Abuja.

Agunloye is facing a seven-count amended charge bordering on alleged official corruption and the controversial award of the Mambilla Power Project contract to Sunrise Power Transmission Company Limited.

Witness Rejects Claims of Alternative FEC Record

During cross-examination by defence counsel, Adeola Adedipe (SAN), the sixth prosecution witness, Iliya John Iyakwari, maintained that there was no alternative version of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting record of May 21, 2003 apart from the document already admitted as evidence.

The witness, who previously served as an Assistant Director (Legal) in the Federal Ministry of Justice, insisted that the certified extract marked Exhibit EFCC 3K accurately reflected the official record.

His testimony came as the defence sought to challenge the credibility and significance of documents relied upon by the prosecution.

Legal Dispute Over Court Exhibit

A brief legal argument also arose during the proceedings after the defence attempted to question the witness on another document marked Exhibit EFCC 3D.

Prosecution counsel, Abba Mohammed (SAN), objected, arguing that the witness could not be cross-examined on a document he neither authored nor presented before the court.

The prosecution relied on existing judicial authorities to support its objection, insisting that the line of questioning was procedurally improper.

Cross-Examination Concludes

Thursday’s hearing concluded the cross-examination of Iyakwari, who currently serves as an Assistant Legal Adviser in the Federal Ministry of Power.

With the witness discharged, attention now shifts to the next stage of the prosecution’s case as the court continues to examine evidence surrounding the disputed contract award.

Why This Matters

The Mambilla Power Project remains one of Nigeria’s most controversial infrastructure projects due to years of legal disputes, contract disagreements and allegations of irregularities.

The authenticity of government records and decisions taken during the contract award process could play a significant role in determining the outcome of the ongoing trial.

Legal analysts say documentary evidence is likely to be a central issue as both sides continue to present their arguments.

What Happens Next?

Justice Onwuegbuzie adjourned the matter until July 2, 2026 for further hearing.

The court is expected to continue taking evidence as the EFCC seeks to prove its allegations against the former minister, while the defence continues its efforts to challenge the prosecution’s case.