The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has charged Christiana Goka, a former Deputy Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for allegedly misappropriating public funds totaling N5,398,656.
Goka, who previously led the Department of Research Monitoring Information System at the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa, appeared before Justice J.A. Aina at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Kwali, Abuja. She faces a five-count charge related to misappropriation of funds and making false statements.
The Allegations: Missing Millions from Government Funds
According to ICPC spokesperson Ademola Bakare, Goka allegedly diverted N5,164,656 from funds allocated for a planned management retreat in Dutse, Jigawa State, in 2017, which was ultimately canceled. The ICPC contends that her actions violate Section 25(1)(a) and are punishable under Section 25(1)(b) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
One of the charges against her states: “That you, Mrs. Christiana Goka, in 2017, as a public officer serving as Deputy Director and Head of the Department of Research Monitoring Information System at the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, did confer a corrupt advantage upon yourself in the sum of N5,164,656.00, part of the total N5,398,656.00 allocated for the botched management retreat.”
Another charge accuses Goka of providing false information to ICPC investigators regarding a N1,000,000 cash transaction involving the late Director General of DTCA, Ambassador Abduljalil Suleiman.
Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions
During the trial’s commencement on March 27, 2025, the prosecution, led by counsel David Nwaze, presented two witnesses who testified and were cross-examined. Goka pleaded not guilty to all charges and was granted bail under the same conditions as her previous administrative bail.
As part of her bail requirements, Goka must provide a surety employed within the Federal Republic of Nigeria at Grade Level 15 or above, residing in Abuja. The surety must also submit a letter of appointment, proof of last promotion, an official identity card, and a passport photograph.
Justice J.A. Aina adjourned the case to a later date for further hearings.
What’s Next?
As the trial unfolds, this case highlights yet another high-profile corruption scandal in Nigeria’s public sector. The outcome could set a significant precedent in the fight against financial misconduct in government institutions. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding fraud case.
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