By Mohamed Garba
In a significant victory for Nigeria, the U.S. District Court for Eastern California has ordered the release of $6.02 million in arms funds seized by the U.S. government since 2014.
The funds were originally paid to an American arms brokerage firm, Dolarian Capital Inc. (DCI), for the purchase of military equipment during the peak of the Boko Haram insurgency.
The U.S. government seized the funds, citing a violation of the Arms Export Control Act by the arms broker, who lacked the necessary license to sell, export, or supply military products to Nigeria.After a prolonged legal battle, the Nigerian government successfully reclaimed the funds. The U.S. court issued a permanent order of forfeiture in Nigeria’s favor, directing the U.S. government to release the funds, along with accrued interest, to the Nigerian government within 60 days.
This development provides relief to Nigeria, which had faced the dual setback of paying for military equipment that was never delivered. The recovery of the funds represents a significant step towards ensuring accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s arms procurement process.
The case underscores the complexities and challenges of international arms deals and highlights the need for greater oversight and accountability in the use of public funds.
