EACC arrests three suspects in Sh28.4 million NITA tender fraud

Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) offices in Nairobi. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested three suspects in connection with a Sh28.4 million tender fraud at the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA).

The suspects, Stephen Ogenga, Director General of NITA, James Waweru, and Sheila Wambui Nyakinyua, both directors of Xponics Limited, are set to be arraigned on Monday, June 3.

The arrest comes after the EACC received allegations of an irregular award of Tender Number: NITA/12/2017-2018 for the supply, installation, and maintenance of sewing and training machines by NITA to Xponics Limited during the FY 2017/2018.

After conducting investigations, the EACC submitted the files to the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), who concurred with the recommendation to charge the suspects.

"The ODPP independently reviewed the case and agreed with our recommendation to charge the suspects," said Eric Ngumbi, EACC Spokesperson.

"The suspects will be charged with conspiracy to commit an offence of corruption, abuse of office, and fraudulent acquisition of public property," he said.

At the same time, EACC detectives also arrested Elizabeth Achieng, who attempted to obstruct the Commission's officers during the arrest of Ogenga.

"Appropriate action will be taken upon conclusion of the investigation," EACC added in a statement on Saturday, June 1.

The Commission has directed the remaining suspect, Paul Kipsang Kosgei, former NITA Director General, to report to EACC headquarters in Nairobi on Monday, 3 June.