The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Ope Saraki, cousin of former Senate President Bukola Saraki before a Kwara State High Court in Ilorin for alleged contract scam.
Mr Saraki was arraigned on Thursday on a two-count charge bordering on employment scam of over N200 million.
EFCC alleged that the defendant, while serving as Special Adviser to the Kwara State Government, knowingly acquired the contract to supply 13 ambulances to General Hospitals for a company of interest.
The first count of the charge reads: “That you, Ope Saraki, sometime in 2012 whilst being the special adviser to the Governor of Kwara State on Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) knowingly acquired indirectly a private interest.
“Contract worth N171,990,000 awarded to Chemistry Nigeria Limited, for the purchase of 13 units of Ambulances for 13 general/specialist hospitals in Kwara State.
“A contract connected to your office, contrary to Section 12 of the Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Act, 2000, and punishable under same law.”
He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Prosecuting counsel, Sesan Ola, prayed the court for a trial date in view of the plea of the defendant.
He also asked the court to remand Saraki in the custody of the Nigeria Correctional Service pending the hearing and determination of the case.
Defence counsel, Joshua Olatoke, urged the court to grant bail to his client, pending the hearing and determination of the case.
Mr Olatoke assured that the defendant would not jump bail, as his international passport was in the EFCC’s custody.
Justice Adenike Akinpelu, however, granted bail to the defendant in the sum of N300 million, and two sureties with verifiable addresses.
She ordered that Saraki should remain in the custody of the EFCC until he meets his bail conditions.
The case was adjourned till April 16 for hearing.
