The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has arraigned a Director at the Federal Ministry of Works, Blessing Lere Adams, over alleged money laundering and corruption.
Lere Adams was brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday on a six count charge bordering on violations of the Money Laundering Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022, the Penal Code Federal Provisions Act, and the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000. The case is marked FHC ABJ CR 551 2025.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the ICPC spokesperson, John Odey, the alleged offences occurred between August 2022 and January 2024 in Abuja. The prosecution, led by Onwuka Ngozi, alleged that Lere Adams received various sums of money from her subordinate, Henry David, funds she reasonably ought to have known were proceeds of corruption.
The commission further alleged that she transferred part of the funds to her husband, Mr Olujimi Lere Adams, and to a Fidelity Bank account belonging to her son, Jafe Lere Adams.
One of the charges stated that on August 18 2022, while serving as Director at the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, she allegedly took possession of and retained N2 million transferred into her First Bank account by Henry David, knowing the money was linked to unlawful acts.
Lere Adams pleaded not guilty to all charges through her counsel, Nduka, and applied for bail. Justice M Liman granted her bail in the sum of N5 million with one surety in like sum. The surety must reside within the court jurisdiction, provide verifiable identification, and submit tax clearance documents for three years.
The case was adjourned to April 20 2026 for hearing. The ICPC said the arraignment reflects its commitment to accountability in public service.
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