EFCC challenges Oyo‑Ita’s duress claim with video evidence as ₦3 billion fraud trial continues in Abuja High Court.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has presented a crucial video recording in a Federal High Court in Abuja, aiming to refute former Head of Service Winifred Oyo‑Ita’s claim that her statements to the anti-graft agency were made under duress.
The development forms part of the trial‑within‑a‑trial to determine whether Oyo‑Ita’s statements are voluntarily given and therefore admissible in court. Oyo‑Ita and six of her companies are facing 18 counts of alleged fraud, corruption, and misappropriation of funds totaling over ₦3 billion.
During proceedings at the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, the EFCC witness testified that the video clearly shows Oyo‑Ita relaxed and informed of her rights, including access to legal counsel before making any statements. The defense did not object to the evidence, which was formally admitted.
Following the presentation, the court adjourned the case to January 21, 2026, to allow Oyo‑Ita’s defense team to begin their case in the trial‑within‑a‑trial. The anti-graft agency maintains that the evidence will demonstrate the voluntary nature of the statements, strengthening its case against the former public servant.
Oyo‑Ita has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and the case remains a high-profile legal matter in Abuja, highlighting the ongoing efforts of the EFCC to tackle corruption at the highest levels of public service.
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