On February 27, 2025, the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja handed down a severe sentence. The court sentenced Indian national Chandra Prankash Singh to 10 years in prison. The charge came from a massive procurement fraud totaling ₦816,361,386.75. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) led the investigation. They gathered substantial evidence against Singh.
The EFCC first arraigned Singh on November 24, 2022. The charges included 19 counts of retaining stolen property and bribery. Singh worked for African Natural Resources and Mines Limited. While in that role, he misused his position. He steered contracts to benefit his own companies. Specifically, he favored CVN Engineering Limited and Neo Paints Nigeria Limited. He influenced his employer to award contracts worth ₦365,757,457.00 and ₦243,141,638.75 to these companies, respectively. In addition, Singh kept $4,150 that belonged to his employer.
During the trial, the prosecution presented strong evidence. They called nine witnesses and submitted key documents. Prosecution lawyer Bilikisu Buhari led the case. She argued that Singh deliberately manipulated procurement processes. Her team showed clear proof of bribery and fraud. The evidence painted a damning picture of Singh’s actions. He acted against the interests of African Natural Resources and Mines Limited.
Judge I.O. Ijelu delivered the verdict on February 27, 2025. He found Singh guilty on counts 14 through 18. The judge ruled that Singh’s conduct betrayed public trust. He ordered a 10-year prison term. Notably, the sentence carried no option of a fine. Moreover, the court ordered Singh to pay ₦345 million in restitution. This amount will go to African Natural Resources and Mines Limited to help mend the financial damage caused.
Singh maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings. However, the weight of the evidence left little doubt for the court. The judge stressed the need for strict penalties to deter future fraud. “This judgment reaffirms our commitment to fighting corruption at all levels,” he stated during sentencing. The decision sent a clear message to public officials and private individuals alike.
In the aftermath, legal experts and members of the public expressed mixed reactions. Some hailed the verdict as a necessary step toward accountability. They argued that strong judicial action is crucial for economic integrity in Nigeria. Others cautioned that fraud cases must be thoroughly examined before harsh sentences are imposed. Nonetheless, the court’s decision reinforced the importance of ethical conduct in public procurement.
In related developments, the EFCC promised to intensify its fight against corruption. They vowed to uncover more cases of financial misconduct. Their efforts aim to restore public confidence in Nigeria’s institutions. The agency also called on companies to adopt stricter internal controls. By doing so, they hope to prevent similar fraud schemes in the future.
The verdict in Singh’s case marks a turning point. It highlights the judiciary’s resolve to tackle high-level corruption. The substantial restitution order underscores the damage inflicted on the state and its agencies. As the nation watches closely, this case serves as a stern warning. All involved in public procurement must act with integrity and transparency.
This landmark case demonstrates that no one is above the law. It also emphasizes that corruption will face tough consequences. With this decision, the Lagos State High Court contributes to a broader movement for accountability. In doing so, it reinforces the principle that ethical governance matters in every transaction. The legal community and citizens alike now look to this ruling as a model for future cases in Nigeria.