Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested a former Chief Financial Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, Umar Isa, in connection with an alleged $7.2 billion fraud linked to the rehabilitation of the Kaduna, Warri, and Port Harcourt refineries.
Recall that some officials of the NNPCL were being investigated for the alleged mismanagement of funds earmarked for the overhaul of these facilities.
The total amount under investigation is $2,956,872,622.36.
Speaking on Monday, a top official in the agency, who requested anonymity due to a lack of authorisation to speak publicly, confirmed Isa’s arrest and said he was being investigated for alleged abuse of office, corruption, among other offences.
“Our operatives have arrested a former Chief Financial Officer of the NNPCL, Umar Ajiya Isa, in connection with an alleged $7.2 billion fraud related to the rehabilitation of the Kaduna, Warri, and Port Harcourt refineries.
Another source who confirmed Isa’s arrest disclosed that the EFCC had also detained the former Managing Director of the Warri Refinery, Jimoh Olasunkanmi.
“Yes, it is true. We have arrested Isa. We also have in our custody the former MD of the Warri Refinery, Jimoh Olasunkanmi,” the second source said.
SOURCE: THE PUNCH
