‘I received N416m’: BDC operator testifies in ex-Governor Obiano’s trial

Ex-Gov Willie Obiano in court on Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Ayuba Tanko, a Bureau De Change (BDC) operator testifying in the ongoing trial of former Governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano, says between April and December 2017, a total sum of N416 million was paid into his company’s account.

Ayuba told a Federal High Court in Abuja while being led in evidence by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) counsel, Slyvanus Tahir (SAN), on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.

Ayuba told the court the N416 million which was received in tranches was given back as $1.137 million equivalent.

The BDC operator said: “I am a trader. I trade in forex exchange. I trade in U.S. dollars, Euros, and pound sterling

“I do source for customers and I do exchange and collect commission.”

The prosecution witness said he used two companies, Sauki Bureau De Change and Zigaziga Trading and Company Limited, for his business.

He added that he was invited by the EFCC, through its investigation department, in 2023 and was questioned about Zigaziga Trading and Company Limited’s account domiciled in one of the commercial banks.

Witnesses: How we supplied Obiano cash from Anambra security votes

When the lawyer asked him how much he received during the period, Ayuba said: “Between April 2017 and December 2017, the total money I received at that period was 416 million in naira.

“And I gave a dollar equivalent as 1,137, 000.00 U.S. dollars.”

Ayuba told the court that besides this transaction, he did not do any other business with the Obiano-led Anambra State Government.

Obiano’s lawyer, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), during cross-examination, asked Ayuba if he had ever had any dealing with the ex-governor directly.

“I did not deal directly with the defendant,” the BDC operator responded.

The prosecution counsel also called three bankers, who gave their testimonies in the alleged money laundering charge.

After the four witnesses testified and were cross-examined by Ikpeazu, presiding judge Justice Inyang Ekwo adjourned the matter until February 24, 25, and 26, 2025, for the continuation of trial.

The Star