The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the freezing of 24 bank accounts linked to allegations of terrorism financing, following an ex parte application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Emeka Nwite, the presiding judge, granted the request filed by Ekele Iheanacho, counsel to the anti-graft agency.
The accounts are reportedly tied to Lawrence Lucky Eromosele, who is under investigation for his alleged involvement in a kidnapping syndicate.
The EFCC claimed the accounts are linked to money laundering and the financing of terrorism, with funds allegedly derived from illegal naira manipulation through cryptocurrency platforms.
The agency argued that freezing the accounts was necessary to protect the funds pending the conclusion of investigations.
According to an affidavit deposed by Mohammed Khalil, an EFCC investigator attached to the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the probe followed directives from the NSA, Nuhu Ribadu.
Khalil revealed that a syndicate had been threatening senior operatives attached to the NSA’s office.
The threats included abduction of family members and demands for ransom, with operatives provided detailed information about their home addresses, family locations, and movements.
Khalil stated that bank accounts linked to the syndicate had been identified and were under scrutiny.
“Further intelligence has revealed that proceeds of crimes and funds for terrorist activities are covertly exchanged through these platforms,” Khalil informed the court.
During the court session, EFCC counsel Martha Babatunde emphasized the need for a 90-day investigation period. Justice Nwite granted the application and adjourned the matter to March 24, 2025, for further mention.
The development underscores the Nigerian government’s intensified efforts to combat terrorism financing and money laundering, especially through unconventional channels like cryptocurrency.
The case remains under active investigation, with updates anticipated in the coming months.
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