Stella Oduah Arraigned in Abuja Over Alleged N5 Billion Aviation Fraud
The Federal Government has formally arraigned former Minister of Aviation, Senator Stella Oduah, on fresh allegations of financial misconduct totalling N5 billion, marking a renewed chapter in one of the country’s most closely watched corruption cases.
Oduah appeared before Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja, where she was docked on a five-count charge bordering on conspiracy, advance fee fraud, and unlawful financial gains. The charges were filed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).
Breakdown of the Allegations
According to the charge sheet, Oduah is accused of using Broad Waters Resources, a private company, to fraudulently obtain huge sums from the Federal Ministry of Aviation—funds allegedly misrepresented as payment for “technical supervision.”
Key allegations include:
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Fraudulently obtaining N2.4 billion under false pretence in January 2014
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Collecting an additional N1.6 billion and N839 million through the same method
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Violations said to contravene Section 8 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offences Act
The prosecution alleges the transactions took place during Oduah’s tenure as Minister of Aviation under the Goodluck Jonathan administration.
Oduah, Co-Defendant Plead Not Guilty
Appearing in court alongside her co-defendant, Gloria Odita, the former minister pleaded not guilty to all charges. Both defendants were represented by senior legal counsel, with Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN) appearing for Oduah and Wale Balogun (SAN) representing Odita.
Court Grants Bail, Restricts Travel
Justice Muazu granted Oduah bail on self-recognition due to her status and previous compliance with court processes. However, he issued strict travel restrictions:
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Oduah must deposit her international passport with the court
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She must not leave Nigeria without express permission
The judge adjourned the matter for trial continuation, stressing the need for accelerated hearing due to the public interest the case has generated.
Senator Stella Oduah
A Case Reopened
This arraignment marks the second attempt by the Federal Government to prosecute Oduah on similar allegations. Earlier charges filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja were withdrawn before this fresh prosecution commenced.
The renewed legal battle is expected to attract significant public scrutiny, especially as Nigeria continues its intensified campaign against corruption in public office.
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