Former Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah, was arraigned before an Abuja High Court on Wednesday alongside Gloria Odita, facing a five-count charge of alleged fraud, obtaining by false pretence, and criminal breach of trust.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accused Oduah and Odita of conspiring to obtain N2,469,030,738.90 from the Federal Ministry of Aviation through Broad Waters Resources Nigeria Ltd and Global Offshore Marine Ltd under false claims.
The prosecution alleged that the defendants falsely pretended the sum represented ‘Cost of Technical Supervision’ and ‘Security Integrated and Logistics Support Services’, which they knew to be false.
Oduah was also accused of dishonestly misappropriating the same sums earmarked for a contract awarded to 1-Sec Security Nigeria Ltd.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty.
Oduah’s counsel, Onyechi Ikpeazu, requested bail on self-recognition, citing her voluntary return from the United States to honour the summons and her administrative bail with the EFCC.
The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, did not oppose bail but urged the court to set a firm trial date.
Justice Hamza Muazu granted Oduah and Odita bail on self-recognition, ordering them to deposit their travel documents and seek court permission before travelling.
The case was adjourned until February 12, 2026, for commencement of trial.
