Big Blow For Suswam! Court Throws Out Ex-Governor’s No-Case Submission In Corruption Trial

The Federal High Court has dismissed the “no-case” submission filed by former Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, and his co-defendant, former Finance Commissioner Omodachi Okolobia, in an ongoing ₦3.1 billion fraud case brought against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Justice Peter Lifu delivered the ruling on Wednesday, stating that based on witness testimonies presented so far, the defendants have a case to answer and must enter their defense. The trial, which began in 2015, resumed before Justice Lifu after the EFCC concluded its case in 2023 under Justice Ahmed Mohammed.

On May 14, 2025, the defense team made an oral “no-case” submission, arguing that the EFCC had not provided sufficient evidence to warrant a trial. However, the court rejected the argument.

Suswam and Okolobia face an 11-count amended charge involving alleged money laundering of ₦3.1 billion—funds said to be proceeds from the sale of Benue State government shares held by Benue Investment and Property Company Limited. The shares were reportedly sold through Elixir Securities Limited and Elixir Investment Partners Limited.

Both defendants have pleaded not guilty, and the court proceedings will now continue with the defense presenting their case.