SGF’s PA Detained by EFCC Over Alleged ₦10 Billion Corruption Scandal

Hon. Andrew Torhile Uchi, the Personal Assistant to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, is currently in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of corruption, bribery, and money laundering totaling ₦10 billion.

A highly placed EFCC source confirmed that Uchi was invited by the agency on Monday following a petition that accused him of acquiring multiple properties across Abuja, Jos, Makurdi, Gboko, and Wannune in Benue State, allegedly worth over ₦6 billion. Investigations have reportedly linked substantial sums of money to these purchases.

According to the source, EFCC investigators have traced at least ₦1.6 billion, allegedly used for purchasing luxury vehicles, through four new-generation banks. The money was reportedly funneled to nine car dealers in Abuja, Kaduna, Lagos, Jos, and Makurdi between December 2023 and now. The transactions have raised concerns over the source of the funds, with investigators suspecting they may be proceeds from illicit activities.

The EFCC is also scrutinizing two Bureau de Change operators for their alleged involvement in the financial transactions tied to Uchi. Investigators believe a significant portion of the funds credited to Uchi originated from their businesses. The anti-graft agency is currently working on obtaining a court order to expand its probe into the properties in Abuja, Jos, and other parts of the country. The aim is to determine the origin of the funds and whether the acquisitions were made with legitimate income.

As of the time of this report, Uchi remains in EFCC custody, undergoing interrogation regarding the sources of the alleged illicit funds. He is reportedly being questioned on whether the money he allegedly handled was obtained through bribes.

Efforts to reach EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale for comments were unsuccessful, as his phone lines were reportedly switched off.