The Federal High Court in Lagos has adjourned the ongoing case between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and former bank executives, including Dr. Bisi Onasanya, to February 13, 2025.
Dr. Onasanya, a former Group Managing Director of First Bank, is accused alongside three others of involvement in a controversial loan transaction that allegedly occurred 12 years ago at the bank.
Dr. Onasanya, represented by his lawyer, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), appeared in court yesterday to challenge the allegations. His legal team demanded access to the proof of evidence and formal charges filed against him.
Allegations and Defense
The case involves Dr. Onasanya, former First Bank Chairman Chief Oba Otudeko, former board member of Honeywell Soji Akintayo, and a company, Anchorage Leisure Ltd.
The EFCC alleges that the group was involved in irregularities surrounding a significant loan transaction during Onasanya’s tenure.
Olumide-Fusika criticized the media trial that his client had been subjected to, expressing shock that news outlets reported the allegations without formal notification or service of charges to his client.
“My Lord, it is troubling that my client has been exposed to unwarranted media scrutiny without being officially served. This undermines his right to a fair trial,” Olumide-Fusika argued in court.
EFCC Denies Media Involvement
Responding to the accusations, the EFCC’s lead counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, denied the commission’s involvement in the media reports. Oyedepo insisted that the EFCC had not released any public statements on the matter, suggesting that journalists might have obtained the information through other sources.
Debate Over Service of Charges
During the hearing, the EFCC requested an ex parte motion for a bench warrant to arrest the defendants, claiming they had evaded service.
Olumide-Fusika opposed the motion, emphasizing that his client had not avoided service and was ready to defend himself.
“My Lord, my client has been present and available throughout this matter. The prosecution’s claims are baseless. I request that the charges and proof of evidence be served in open court today,” Olumide-Fusika said.
Presiding Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke dismissed the EFCC’s motion for substituted service, ordering that the charges and proof of evidence be served in open court.
The EFCC complied with the directive, and Olumide-Fusika confirmed receipt of the documents.
The defense counsel also sought confirmation from the EFCC that the evidence provided was exhaustive, with no addendums expected.
Adjournment and Response
Justice Aneke adjourned the case to February 13, 2025, allowing the defense time to review the evidence and prepare for trial.
Dr. Onasanya, through his communication advisor Michael Oshunuyi, dismissed the allegations as baseless, describing them as an attempt to tarnish his professional reputation built on integrity and excellence.
Stay tuned to NIGPOST for updates on this case and other breaking news stories.
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