BREAKING: Court Threatens Arrest of Senator Andy Uba Over Alleged ₦400m Fraud Scam

The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a stern warning that a bench warrant may be issued for the arrest of former Anambra South Senator, Andy Uba, if he fails to appear in court on October 28, 2025, to answer to allegations of fraud running into ₦400 million.

Uba and his co-accused, businessman Benjamin Etu, are facing trial on charges of conspiracy and obtaining money under false pretence in a controversial deal allegedly linked to appointments at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, issued the threat after Uba, for the umpteenth time, failed to appear in court. His lawyer, C.F. Odiniru, again pleaded for leniency, citing his client’s “illness and ongoing treatment in the United States.”

But prosecution counsel, Aminu Abdullahi, representing the Inspector-General of Police, strongly opposed the excuse, accusing Uba of “flagrant disrespect for the court” and stalling justice. Abdullahi insisted that Uba had never stepped foot in court since charges were filed in 2024, adding that his repeated absence suggested a deliberate attempt to evade trial.

“This is the same excuse counsel gave in July. We cannot continue this way. Section 394 of the ACJA provides for a bench warrant, and my lord, we are applying for one against the 1st defendant,” Abdullahi argued.

In a fiery exchange, Justice Umar challenged Odiniru:

> “So what you are saying is that we will remain this way even if it takes 10 years? Have you seen where a person has been brought to court on a stretcher?”



Odiniru, however, stood his ground, claiming he had presented medical documents to the prosecution to prove Uba’s illness — a claim Abdullahi dismissed as “mere speculation.”

After heated arguments, Justice Umar gave Uba a “last chance”, ordering his lawyer to ensure the ex-senator is physically present in court on the adjourned date.

The case, which has drawn intense public interest, stems from allegations that Uba, Etu, and one Hajiya Fatima (now at large) conspired to defraud businessman George Uboh of ₦400 million, promising to secure him the position of Managing Director of the NDDC — a claim investigators described as false and fraudulent.

The Attorney-General of the Federation had in July cleared the police to prosecute Uba and Etu after reviewing petitions and evidence, including documentary records and voice recordings submitted by the petitioner.

So far, at least six witnesses have been listed to testify against the ex-lawmaker and his co-defendant when the trial finally kicks off.

Justice Umar has adjourned the case until October 28 for arraignment and plea-taking, with a clear warning that Uba risks immediate arrest should he fail to appear.