Former DG of National Institute For Legislative, Democratic Studies Faces Arrest Over Corruption Charges
A Federal High Court sitting in Apo, Abuja, has ordered the arrest of Professor Ladi Aisha Hamalai, former Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), for her failure to appear in a corruption case brought against her by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The court, presided over by Hon. Justice C. O. Oba, issued the bench warrant on Monday, 22nd of April, 2024, following Professor Hamalai’s repeated non-appearance in court despite being properly served.
The ICPC Counsel informed the court that it was the fourth consecutive time the former DG of NILDS failed to heed the Commission’s invitation to appear in the case. The case, numbered FCT/HC/CR/312/23, alleges that Professor Hamalai abused her office by requesting funds intended for official purposes but diverted them for personal gain.
Specifically, the ICPC accuses Professor Hamalai of requesting N12 million for renting a guest house for her office but instead using the funds to purchase property for herself in the Gwarimpa area of Abuja. Additionally, she is accused of soliciting another N29 million for furnishing the building as a government guest house.
ICPC Prosecutor, Michael Adesola, expressed surprise at Professor Hamalai’s absence despite being served the arraignment notice. In response, Counsel to Professor Hamalai, Olayemi Afolayan, cited her client’s illness as the reason for her absence.
Justice Oba ruled that due to Professor Hamalai’s failure to appear in court, the ICPC should effect her arrest and produce her in court on the next adjourned date, set for the 9th of September, 2024.
This development underscores the continued efforts of the ICPC to combat corruption and ensure accountability in public office.