ICPC finally arraigns NBC boss over alleged N2.5bn fraud

NBC-DG-Ishaq-Modibbo-Kawu

Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arraigned the Director General of National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Ishaq Kawu, for alleged N2.5 billion fraud.

Kawu was arraigned at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday on 12-count charges.

He is being tried for allegedly diverting over N2.5 billion meant for the digital switch-over system introduced by the Federal Government.

Also joined as defendants in the suit are Lucky Omoluwa and Dipo Onifade, chairman of Pinnacle Communications Limited and the company’s chief operating officer respectively.

The company, Pinnacle Communications Limited, is also joined in the trial.

Justice Folashade Giwa had in March ordered Kawu to appear before the court in April even if it requires him being brought in a stretcher.

When hearing was called on Thursday, the judge granted the defendants bail of N100 million each with two sureties in like sum alongside other conditions.

“In the event that any of the defendants did not meet these conditions within the window of 10 working days from today, they shall be taken into the custody of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences and be remanded in prison pending when their bail conditions are met,” she ruled.

The case was adjourned to May 3 for commencement of trial.