An Indian national, Chandra Prankash Singh, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for procurement fraud involving over N816 million. Justice I.O. Ijelu of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja delivered the verdict on Thursday, February 27, 2025, following a trial initiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Singh, formerly an employee of African Natural Resources and Mines Limited, was accused of manipulating procurement processes to favor his companies, CVN Engineering Limited and Neo Paints Nigeria Limited, in awarding contracts worth hundreds of millions of naira. In addition to his prison term, Singh was ordered to make restitution of N345 million to his victim.
Charges of Bribery and Retention of Stolen Property
Singh was arraigned on November 24, 2022, on a 19-count charge bordering on bribery and the retention of stolen property. According to the EFCC, he illegally influenced the procurement process while working for African Natural Resources and Mines Limited, ensuring that his companies received lucrative supply contracts.
One of the charges stated that Singh, on or before January 1, 2021, solicited an undue advantage for CVN Engineering Limited, leading to the award of a N365,757,457.00 contract. Similarly, another count accused him of manipulating the process to grant Neo Paints Nigeria Limited a N243,141,638.75 supply contract.
Further investigations revealed that Singh dishonestly retained $4,150 belonging to his employer, raising additional concerns about financial misappropriation. He pleaded not guilty to all charges, prompting a full trial.
EFCC’s Case: Proving Guilt Beyond Reasonable Doubt
The prosecution, led by Bilikisu Buhari, built a solid case against Singh, calling nine witnesses and presenting several documentary pieces of evidence to substantiate the charges. Witnesses included representatives from African Natural Resources and Mines Limited, forensic accountants, and financial analysts who traced the fraudulent transactions.
Key evidence included bank statements, email correspondences, procurement records, and testimonies detailing how Singh manipulated contracts for personal gain. The EFCC’s forensic analysis confirmed that Singh’s companies received preferential treatment through corrupt practices.
The court found sufficient evidence to convict Singh on counts 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18, leading to the sentencing.
Justice Ijelu’s Verdict: No Option of Fine
Delivering judgment, Justice I.O. Ijelu ruled that Singh’s actions constituted a serious economic crime, affecting corporate integrity and trust in Nigeria’s business environment. He sentenced Singh to 10 years imprisonment without the option of a fine and mandated that he repay N345 million to his victim as restitution.
The judge emphasized the need for deterrence, stating that corporate fraud undermines investor confidence and hampers economic growth. Singh’s sentencing sends a strong message that corruption, particularly in procurement processes, will not go unpunished.
EFCC’s Commitment to Fighting Financial Crimes
Reacting to the judgment, the EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate reaffirmed its dedication to tackling financial crimes, particularly in procurement and contract awards. The agency noted that Singh’s conviction highlights the effectiveness of its investigative and prosecutorial efforts.
The EFCC urged businesses and individuals to remain vigilant against fraudulent activities and report suspicious transactions to relevant authorities. The commission also reiterated its commitment to ensuring accountability and protecting corporate entities from internal fraud.
With Singh’s conviction, the EFCC has once again demonstrated its resolve in curbing economic crimes and ensuring that justice is served in cases of financial misconduct.
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