Darius Ishaku trial reveals shocking N27bn fraud as witness details cash collections and transfers in Abuja court
Darius Ishaku trial took a dramatic turn in Abuja on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, as the first prosecution witness, Ismail Lawal, narrated how he received and disbursed billions of naira on the former governor’s instructions.
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The case, before Justice S.C. Oriji of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, has the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission prosecuting Ishaku and former permanent secretary Bello Yero on a 15-count charge.
The charges centre on criminal breach of trust, conspiracy and the alleged diversion of N27 billion in public funds.
During cross-examination by Ishaku’s counsel, P.H. Ogbole, SAN, Lawal revealed that the ex-governor’s orders were sometimes verbal, sometimes by text, and occasionally in writing.
He admitted to collecting N10 million from a liaison officer in Abuja on 13 December 2020, and N7 million from Emmanuel Ifun, Director of Finance, just two days earlier.
Reading from his personal record book, Lawal detailed further staggering amounts: N50 million from the permanent secretary on 20 December 2020, N30 million on 12 January 2021, N20 million on 27 January, N4 million on 30 January, and additional sums through early 2021, including N20 million on 3 February and N30 million directly from Zenith Bank on 10 February.
He told the court that his notebook contained every transaction he managed with Ishaku, describing it as a confidential record “between me and His Excellency,” verified by the former governor himself.
The Darius Ishaku trial continues to grip national attention with its explosive revelations. Observers say the case could prove pivotal in Nigeria’s fight against entrenched corruption.
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Justice Oriji adjourned the matter until 20 October, with further hearings scheduled for 4 and 6 November.
