Date: 2020-03-20

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ilorin Zonal Office has arraigned one Ope Saraki, a Cousin of the immediate past President of the Nigerian Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki on two count charges bordering on contract scam to the tune of over two hundred million naira.

Saraki was arraigned before Justice Adenike Akinpelu of the Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin.

The EFCC alleged that the Defendant while serving as Special Adviser to the Kwara State Government knowingly acquired a contract to supply Thirteen Ambulances to General Hospitals in the state into a company of interest.

When the two count charges were read to him, Saraki pleaded not guilty.

Prosecuting Counsel, Sesan Ola told the Court that in view of the plea of the defendant, the prosecution is prayed for a trial date and urged that the Accused Person be remanded in the custody of the Nigeria Correctional Service pending hearing and determination of the case.

Defence Counsel, Dr Kayode Olatoke however asked the Court to grant bail to his client pending the hearing and determination of the case, stating that Ope Saraki would not jump bail as his international passport had been in the Custody of EFCC.

Justice Akinpelu in her bench ruling granted bail in the sum of three hundred million naira to the accused Person and must produce two sureties with verifiable addresses.

She however maintained that should remain in the Custody of the EFCC till he perfects his bail conditions

Further hearing in the case has been adjourned till 16th of next Month.