As part of investigations into how $2.1 billion arms procurement funds were allegedly misappropriated through the Office of the National Security Adviser under Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has discovered the sum of $1 million in a mansion belonging to former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshall Alex Badeh (rtd).
Badeh, who is presently in custody of the anti-graft agency, stands accused of 10 charges bordering on diversion of N3.97 billion belonging to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
His trial is expected to begin today, after his lawyers failed to secure bail for him on grounds of ill-health.
The EFCC said the cash, found tucked in the ex-CDS’ room after a search of his mansion located in Abuja, could be part of the procurement funds.
The money was discovered in the presence of Badeh’s neighbours at the residence located at 6, Ogun River Street, Maitama, Abuja, so they can attest to it, The Nation quoted a source as saying.
The source said Badeh is being investigated for diverting funds from the arms procurement fund to Bureau de Change.
The former Chief of Defence Staff, who was before his appointment the Chief of Air Staff, vehemently denied involvement in the arms procurement scandal that has been dubbed ‘Dasukigate’.