FCT Election: EFCC Arraigns Two In Abuja For Money Laundering, Vote Buying
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned two individuals in Abuja over alleged money laundering and vote buying involving ₦26 million.
Esther Ashivelli Dawaki and Shehu Aliyu Fatange appeared before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday, 10 September 2025, facing a five-count charge bordering on conspiracy, illegal cash transactions, and money laundering.
According to the EFCC, the defendants were arrested in Kaduna on 16 August after investigators intercepted ₦26,463,000 hidden in a Toyota Corolla parked within a hotel.
Fatange, who identified himself as the Director General of the campaign office of a PDP candidate in the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency bye-election, was alleged to have earmarked the money for vote buying during the poll.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty. Prosecution counsel M.O. Arumemi requested their remand in custody, while defence counsel applied for bail.
Justice Nwite ordered Dawaki’s remand in Suleja Correctional Centre and Fatange’s in Kuje Correctional Centre, adjourning the matter to 15 September for the hearing of the bail application.
