Arms deal dasuki picked up again

The "Arms Deal" scandal involving Sambo Dasuki, a former National Security Adviser (NSA) in Nigeria, has been a subject of controversy and investigation in recent years.

For those who may not be familiar, the scandal revolves around allegations that Dasuki, who served as NSA from 2012 to 2015, embezzled billions of naira (Nigerian currency) meant for the procurement of arms and equipment for the Nigerian military to fight Boko Haram, a terrorist group that has been wreaking havoc in the country.

The scandal came to light in 2015, when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) launched an investigation into Dasuki's activities as NSA. The investigation revealed that Dasuki had allegedly diverted funds meant for the procurement of arms and equipment to personal use, including the purchase of luxury cars, properties, and other assets.

The scandal led to Dasuki's arrest and detention in 2015, and he was subsequently charged with 19 counts of money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and corruption. In 2017, Dasuki was convicted and sentenced to 12 years in prison for diverting $2.1 billion meant for the procurement of arms and equipment.

However, the scandal has continued to unfold, with new revelations and allegations emerging over the years. In recent months, there have been reports of fresh investigations and arrests related to the scandal.

In July 2022, the EFCC re-arraigned Dasuki on new charges, including money laundering and criminal breach of trust. The new charges relate to the alleged diversion of N33.3 billion (approximately $90 million) meant for the procurement of arms and equipment.

The re-arraignment of Dasuki has sparked renewed controversy and debate in Nigeria, with many calling for justice and accountability in the handling of the scandal. The scandal has also raised questions about the effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria and the need for greater transparency and accountability in government.

It's worth noting that the scandal has also implicated several high-ranking officials and politicians, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, who has been accused of playing a role in the diversion of funds meant for the procurement of arms and equipment.

Overall, the "Arms Deal" scandal remains a significant corruption scandal in Nigeria, and its resolution is likely to have far-reaching implications for the country's anti-corruption efforts and its ability to effectively combat terrorism and other security threats.