N170bn Theft: EFCC Frees Suspended Accountant-General, Ahmed Idris

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has released the suspended accountant-general of the federation, Ahmed Idris, from its custody.

Idris was detained by the anti-graft agency for money laundering charges to the tune of N170 billion, OduNews reports.

The embattled accountant-general was subsequently suspended on May 18 by Ms Ahmed, who cited the EFCC’s allegation that he stole and laundered more than N80 billion. Later, reports of another N90 billion fraud were traced to Mr Idris.

EFCC’s spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, confirmed to Peoples Gazette that he was released on Wednesday.

“Yes he has been released, he was released on Wednesday night,” Mr Uwujaren said when asked if the embattled accountant general has been released.

President Muhammadu Buhari subsequently appointed Anamekwe Nwabuoku to replace Mr Idris.

Mr Idris was appointed as the Federation’s Accountant-General on June 25, 2015, by Mr Buhari.

Mr Idris was reappointed for a second four-year term in June 2019, prompting considerable criticism that the controversial accountant general had exceeded the required service time.