The Federal High Court in Lagos has scheduled May 8, 2026, to deliver its ruling on no-case submissions filed by former Niger State Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu and his co-defendant Umar Muhammed Nasko in an ongoing fraud trial. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) prosecutes the case, which involves alleged misuse of ecological funds.
Justice Yelim Bogoro presided over a Federal High Court session in Lagos. Lawyers presented and adopted final written arguments on Thursday. After that, Justice Bogoro fixed May 8, 2026, for the ruling on the no-case submissions. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission opposed the requests. Faruk Abdallah represented the commission.
Details of the Charges
Muazu Babangida Aliyu, former Governor of Niger State, and Umar Muhammed Nasko, former Commissioner for Environment, Parks, Gardens and Forest Resources, faced eight counts.
The charges included conspiracy, money laundering, and conversion of ecological funds totaling N1,509,791,200. Meanwhile authorities arraigned them on April 28, 2017.
Prosecution’s Case
The prosecution closed its presentation after calling 11 witnesses and tendering documents. Abdallah stated that the first defendant filed a written no case submission on December 18, 2025. Additionally, he noted that the second defendant submitted his on November 23, 2025. The commission responded to both filings.
Defense Submissions
Y. Kalamu appeared for Aliyu. Mamman Mike Ousman, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, represented Nasko. Moreover they urged the court to dismiss the case. However the prosecution argued against the requests.
Background of the Allegations
The case originated from an EFCC complaint. Investigators alleged misuse of ecological funds. Moreover the commission prosecuted the defendants. Justice Bogoro adjourned the matter after the session.
