N12.3 BILLION FRAUD CASE: OTUDEKO, OTHERS PROTEST LACK OF SERVICE 21-01-25
By Sadiq Aminu The courtroom witnessed high drama as legal counsel for the defendants in an N12.3 billion fraud case involving the Chairman of the Honeywell Group, Oba Otudeko, and others, raised objections over procedural lapses.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought a 13-count charge against Otudeko, a former Managing Director of First Bank Plc, Olabisi Onasanya, former Honeywell board member Soji Akintayo, and Anchorage Leisure Ltd.
The allegations involve obtaining N12.3 billion under false pretenses between 2013 and 2014.
Marked as FHC/L/20C/2025, the case took an unusual turn when the defence counsel, led by Mr Bode Olanipekun (SAN), announced their appearance “in protest,” citing non-service of the charge on the defendants.
When the case was called, Olanipekun argued that media reports, rather than formal communication, informed his client of the charges.
Displaying headlines from January 17, he criticized the EFCC’s reliance on public speculation rather than following due process.
Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke questioned why the defence counsel was in court if no formal service had been effected.
In response, Mr Olumide Fusika (SAN), representing the second defendant, acknowledged he had printed a copy of the charge himself.
The prosecutor, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), admitted challenges in serving the defendants but assured the court of ongoing efforts.
He moved for substituted service at the defendants’ last known addresses, which the court approved.
Taking a cooperative stance, Fusika volunteered to accept service on behalf of his client, prompting the court to direct the prosecutor to issue him a copy in open court.
Justice Aneke adjourned the matter to February 13 for arraignment.
The EFCC alleges the funds were obtained in multiple tranches, including sums of N5.2 billion, N6.2 billion, and N500 million. The case continues to highlight procedural tensions in high-profile prosecutions.