By Nkechi Eze
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arraigned Ibitoye Olajide Moses, former Director of Finance and Supply at the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI) in Ilorin, Kwara State, over alleged multi-million naira contract fraud and abuse of office.
In a statement, ICPC Spokesperson J. Okor Odey disclosed that Moses was brought before Honourable Justice H.A. Saleeman of the Kwara State High Court on a 24-count charge, including conferring unfair advantage, acquiring private interests in public contracts, misappropriation of funds, and making false statements to investigators. The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Moses’ defence counsel, Mr. Oluwasheye Adeboye, applied for bail, which was unopposed by the prosecution. The court granted bail in the sum of ₦5,000,000 with two sureties residing within the court’s jurisdiction, one of whom must own landed property. The trial has been adjourned to May 26, 2026.
ICPC investigations allege that Moses leveraged his position to influence the award of numerous contracts worth tens of millions of naira to companies in which he held direct and indirect interests. Among these is a ₦48.52 million contract for entrepreneurship training on oil palm production for women in Akwa Ibom State, awarded to Magic Touch Business Solutions Ltd, where he is reportedly a director and shareholder.
Further allegations include his involvement in contracts worth ₦29.95 million for dry season farming training, ₦40 million for youth and women empowerment in agricultural value chains, and ₦550,000 from a ₦28.85 million contract awarded to Synergy Impact Consulting Ltd. Additional contracts valued at ₦15.8 million, ₦14.96 million, ₦10 million, and ₦19.83 million were also allegedly influenced by Moses for personal benefit.
The ICPC also claims that Moses misappropriated ₦3 million collected as administrative charges on contracts and maintained active involvement in Magic Touch Business Solutions Ltd while in public service, alongside his wife, who is listed as a director and signatory on the company’s accounts. He is further accused of making false statements to investigators regarding his financial dealings and directorship, contradicting documentary evidence.
The prosecution is expected to call witnesses and present documentary exhibits to substantiate the allegations when the trial begins.
