A Federal High Court in Abuja has found former Acting Accountant-General, Anamekwe Nwabuoku, guilty of financial crimes involving public funds, bringing an end to a prolonged legal battle.

In its decision, the court held that the case presented by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission established a clear pattern of unlawful financial dealings. The judge, James Omotosho, ruled that the defendant used multiple channels to move funds in a way that violated financial regulations.

Rather than focusing on a single transaction, the case revealed a series of financial activities spread across different accounts and entities, which the court said pointed to deliberate concealment.

Although the total prison term attached to the conviction appears lengthy, the structure of the sentence means it will be served within a single timeframe, not extended cumulatively.

The court also took note of funds returned during the investigation, but maintained that this did not erase the offence or its implications.

The charges against Nwabuoku are linked to his earlier role within the Ministry of Defence, where he oversaw financial operations. Investigators alleged that during this period, public funds were diverted through private companies, raising concerns about accountability in a critical government sector.

His later appointment into a higher national role was cut short after scrutiny from anti-corruption authorities intensified, placing him under investigation and eventually leading to prosecution.

The ruling adds to a growing list of high-profile corruption cases pursued by authorities, reinforcing calls for stricter oversight in public finance management and signalling continued pressure on officials entrusted with government resources.