**N240m Scandal: Supreme Court Upholds Seven-Year Jail Term for Former Akwa Ibom Finance Commissioner** In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has upheld the seven-year prison sentence handed to Bassey Albert, a former finance commissioner in Akwa Ibom State, over a N240 million fraud case. The court also restored the order for Albert to refund N204 million to the Akwa Ibom State Government. Albert, who later became a senator, was accused of receiving bribes of 12 cars in 2012 from an oil marketer, Olajide Omokore, an associate of former Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke. Alison-Madueke is currently facing corruption-related trials in the UK. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleged that the vehicles were part of corruption proceeds from contracts worth N3 billion awarded to Omokore's companies by the Akwa Ibom State Government at the time. The EFCC listed the vehicles bought for Albert to include Infinity QX 56, Toyota Land Cruiser, Range Rover, Toyota Hiace, and Toyota Hilux, valued at various sums ranging from N16 million to N45 million. After a thorough investigation, Albert was found guilty of corruption-related offences and sentenced to seven years in prison. However, the Court of Appeal later set aside the restitution order made by the trial court, which required Albert to refund N204 million to the Akwa Ibom State Government. The Supreme Court has now faulted this decision, describing it as a misapplication of the law. The court has restored the restitution order, making it mandatory for Albert to refund the N204 million. This ruling is a significant victory for the EFCC and the Akwa Ibom State Government, which has been pursuing Albert for his alleged role in the N240 million scam. The case highlights the need for accountability and transparency in public office, particularly in the management of public funds. With this ruling, the message is clear: those who abuse their positions of trust will face the full weight of the law. As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges of corruption, this ruling serves as a reminder that the judiciary is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that those who break the law are held accountable. It is a significant step in the right direction towards a more transparent and accountable society.