Fayose’s Trial: Former NSA Director Testifies Against Ex-Ekiti Governor

A dramatic turn of events unfolded in the ongoing trial of former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, as a former Director of Administration and Finance in the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Shuaibu Salisu, testified against him.

Salisu, the 14th prosecution witness, revealed that the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Dasuki, authorized payments of N200 million and N2 billion to a company, Silver Macnamara, without any evidence of the work done.

The testimony, which was given in a Federal High Court in Lagos, shed light on the questionable financial dealings of the former NSA office.

Salisu stated that the payments were made for “physical security infrastructures” but no details were provided, and the NSA did not disclose the purpose of the payments.

The witness, who was led in evidence by prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), claimed that the NSA office made payments for security operations, and retirement of funds was expected after the purpose was fulfilled.

However, he could not confirm if Silver Macnamara retired the funds.

The testimony is a significant development in the trial of Fayose, who is accused of using N1.219 billion to fund his 2014 governorship campaign.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleges that Fayose and his company, Spotless Investment Limited, committed criminal breach of trust, theft, and stealing of public funds.

Under cross-examination by Fayose’s counsel, Ola Olanipekun (SAN), Salisu maintained that all payments made by the NSA office were done through the bank, and a mandate was raised before payment.

He also testified that the retirement of funds was expected after the purpose was fulfilled, but he could not confirm if Silver Macnamara complied.

The trial has been adjourned until October 18, and Fayose’s counsel has been granted permission for him to travel abroad for medical reasons.