The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Mr. Suleiman Garba Bulkwang, the Director of Human Resources Management at the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on charges of fraud.
Bulkwang faces a five-count indictment for alleged criminal diversion of funds and money laundering amounting to ₦223,412,909.
One charge alleges that he counseled a consultant, Umaefulem Donatus Chibueze, to transfer ₦138,123,969 from funds paid to Cees Assist Resources and Brainstask Value Resources by REA, knowing the money was proceeds of unlawful activity. Another count accuses him of indirectly converting ₦45 million through various entities, including Dammy Gold Programme Ltd and Green Haven Company, also linked to funds unlawfully acquired.
The charges contravene sections of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Bulkwang pleaded not guilty to all charges. In the absence of his defense counsel, EFCC prosecutor Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, requested a trial date and the defendant’s remand.
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the case to February 3, 2024, for the hearing of Bulkwang’s bail application. He was ordered to remain in custody at Kuje Correctional Center until then.
