by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
A high-profile corruption trial is underway in Equatorial Guinea, where former senior government official, Engonga, is facing multiple charges, including embezzlement, unlawful enrichment, and abuse of power. He is being tried alongside six other former officials accused of participating in an extensive scheme to divert public funds for personal use.
During court proceedings on Monday, prosecutors outlined what they described as a sophisticated operation allegedly led by Engonga while he served as head of the Directorate General of Insurance and Reinsurance from 2015 to 2020. The charges paint a picture of widespread financial mismanagement and personal profiteering at the expense of public funds.
According to Le Bled Parle, the national prosecutor is seeking severe penalties:
- 8 years in prison for embezzling public funds,
- 4 years and 5 months for unlawful enrichment,
- 6 years and 1 day for abuse of power.
In addition, prosecutors are recommending a fine exceeding 910 million CFA francs (about $1.5 million) and a ban on holding public office during the prison term.
The 54-year-old economist is one of several officials under scrutiny. Other defendants include Carmelo Julio Matogo Ndong, Ireneo Mangue Monsuy Afana, and Florentina Iganga Iñandji, all accused of misappropriating public funds as part of what authorities describe as a “vast network of financial corruption.”
The trial, expected to last three days, continues this week with defense attorneys presenting their case.
Adding to the controversy, investigators reportedly uncovered a large collection of explicit videos during a surprise search of Engonga’s home and office, conducted by the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF). Over 400 recordings allegedly depict Engonga engaging in consensual sexual encounters with married women, many of whom are wives of prominent political figures.
Among those reportedly featured in the leaked footage are the wife of Engonga’s brother, his cousin, the sister of the President of Equatorial Guinea, the wife of the Director General of Police, and spouses of about 20 ministers. The scandal has ignited a major media storm in the country and further complicated the public’s perception of the ongoing trial.
Despite the shocking nature of the revelations, prosecutors remain focused on the core corruption charges, emphasizing the broader impact of financial crimes on governance and public trust in Equatorial Guinea.