The Federal Government yesterday filed 19 additional charges against former National Security Adviser (NSA), retired Col. Sambo Dasuki.

Dasuki, now under detention, is being accused of extra-budgetary spending to the tune of N643.8 billion and an additional $2.2 billion in foreign currency component.

The money is said to be part of the $2.1 billion meant for arms purchase for the fight against Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East.

The charges were filed at the FCT High Court, Abuja and sources said Dasuki is expected to be arraigned today or Monday.

He will be arraigned with Salisu Shuaibu, a former Director of Finance in his office; Aminu Baba-Kusa, a former Group Executive Director of NNPC; Acacia Holdings Ltd, and Reliance Referral Hospital Ltd.

Former governor of Sokoto State Attahiru Bafarawa, his son Attahiru Sagir, former Minister of National Planning Bashir Yuguda and Dalhatu Investment Ltd are also charged separately with 22 counts over alleged diversion of over N10 billion meant for arms.

However, details of the charges were unavailable at press time.

A defence lawyer who pleaded anonymity said he doubted if the ex-NSA had been served, adding that “Dasuki would have to be first served the charges in person before he would brief the lawyers.”

Defence counsel, Joseph Daudu (SAN) and Ahmed Raji (SAN) both said they were aware of the fresh charges but declined further comment.

The case is slated for January 20 for mention.

•Excerpted from a Daily Trust report. Photo shows Sambo Dasuki.