By Stephen Simon
An operative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has told an Abuja High Court how two men were allegedly arrested over an attempt to obtain $700,000 from former Nigerian Ports Authority Managing Director, Mohammed Bello-Koko.
The witness, Tanko Abubakar, testified in the trial of Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim before Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Apo, Abuja.
According to the prosecution, the defendants allegedly posed as officials connected to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede and claimed that Bello-Koko was under investigation.
The witness said the suspects allegedly demanded $1 million to stop the purported investigation, later reducing the amount to $700,000.
He told the court that the EFCC arranged an operation after receiving intelligence about the alleged scheme.
According to his testimony, Hashim was arrested at a hotel in Abuja after the witness indicated that the money was ready. Joshua was subsequently arrested at his residence.
The defendants are facing amended charges bordering on conspiracy, impersonation and obtaining money by false pretence.
They have pleaded not guilty, and the allegations remain before the court.
Justice Onwuegbuzie adjourned the matter for continuation of trial.
