The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has brought a former Director of Finance and Supply at the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI), Ilorin, Kwara State, Ibitoye Moses, before the court over alleged contract fraud involving millions of naira.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the commission’s spokesperson, Okor Odey, the defendant was arraigned before Justice H. A. Saleeman at the Kwara State High Court. He is facing a 24-count charge that includes abuse of office, contract manipulation, misappropriation of funds, and providing false information to investigators.
Moses pleaded not guilty to all charges when they were read in court. Following his plea, his counsel, Oluwasheye Adeboye, applied for bail. The prosecution counsel, David Nwaze, did not oppose the request.
In his ruling, Justice Saleeman granted bail to the defendant in the sum of ₦5 million. The court also required two sureties who must reside within its jurisdiction, with at least one owning landed property.
The case was subsequently adjourned to May 26, 2026, for the commencement of trial.
The ICPC stated that its investigation uncovered that Moses allegedly used his official position to influence the award of contracts to companies in which he had personal interests. One of the major allegations involves a contract valued at ₦48.52 million for training women in oil palm entrepreneurship in Akwa Ibom State. The contract was reportedly awarded to Magic Touch Business Solutions Ltd, a company in which the defendant is said to be both a director and shareholder.
Further findings revealed that the same company also secured additional contracts worth ₦29.95 million and ₦40 million, from which the defendant allegedly benefited.
In another instance, Moses was accused of receiving indirect financial gain amounting to ₦550,000 from a separate contract valued at ₦28.85 million awarded to a different firm.
The commission also alleged that he diverted ₦3 million meant as administrative charges and denied his connection to the companies during interrogation, despite evidence suggesting otherwise.
The prosecution indicated it would rely on witnesses and documentary proof to establish its case during trial.
