A former Deputy Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Christiana Goka, appeared before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Kwali, Abuja, to answer charges of allegedly diverting N5.4 million in public funds. The case, prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), centers on financial irregularities linked to a failed 2017 staff retreat.

Court documents reveal Mrs. Goka, who previously headed the Research Monitoring Information System department at the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa (DTCA), faces five counts of fund misappropriation and making false statements. Prosecutors allege she improperly handled N5,164,656 from budgeted retreat funds while serving in her official capacity.

ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare detailed the charges, stating: “The defendant stands accused of unlawfully benefiting from government funds intended for official purposes, violating anti-corruption laws.” The commission further alleges Mrs. Goka provided misleading information during their investigation, specifically denying receipt of N1 million cash reportedly returned to her under instructions from the late DTCA Director General.

During Thursday’s hearing, the prosecution team led by David Nwaze presented two witnesses who underwent cross-examination. Mrs. Goka maintained her innocence, entering a not guilty plea to all charges.

Presiding Justice J.A. Aina sustained the defendant’s existing bail terms, requiring a federal civil servant of at least Grade Level 15 as surety. The court ordered the surety to provide employment verification documents including promotion records and valid identification.

The case has been adjourned to a future date while investigations continue. This prosecution forms part of the federal government’s ongoing anti-corruption initiative targeting financial misconduct within public institutions. Legal observers note the case highlights accountability measures for civil servants handling government funds.

The next court date will determine further proceedings in what authorities describe as a straightforward case of alleged diversion of public resources. Mrs. Goka’s defense team has indicated they will vigorously challenge the charges as the trial progresses.