Patricia Magara, a former State House official and daughter of National Resistance Army (NRA) historical figure Sam Magara, is under scrutiny following allegations raised by a Nigerian investor over financial dealings.
According to a petition filed with the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), the investor, identified as Pwanabeshi Eric Alson, claims he paid Magara USD 300,000 (approximately Shs 1 billion) for consultation services related to his investment plans in Uganda.
Alson, the CEO of Greenlane International, a company focused on deriving economic value from environmental initiatives, alleged that he connected with Magara in late 2023.
He stated that Magara offered to assist him in securing necessary documentation to transfer USD 3 billion for planned investments in Uganda.
The investor further claimed that Magara assured him of facilitating introductions to high-ranking officials to expedite the process. Alson said he made two payments: USD 60,000 on November 19, 2024, and USD 240,000 on November 21, 2024, at a Kampala hotel, with Magara reportedly signing a receipt for the funds.
Alson also claimed he bore additional costs for logistics, including facilitating travel for verification purposes.
Despite these payments, he alleged that the promised outcomes were not delivered, prompting him to seek clarification from officials in Uganda.
Disputed Claims and Ongoing Investigations
Alson recounted meeting with Gen. Salim Saleh, who denied prior knowledge of the arrangement and reportedly contacted Magara to address the matter.
According to Alson, the General instructed Magara to resolve the issue and refund the money, but this has not occurred.
The matter has since been referred to Brig. Gen. Isoke at SHACU, with Alson seeking assistance in recovering the funds.
The Legal Officer at State House Investors Protection Unit reportedly advised Alson to pursue the matter through official channels.
Authorities, including the Uganda Police, are said to be investigating the claims, with further action anticipated based on the findings.
