The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arraigned two individuals, Blessing Onyinaya Chimaobi and Uzofor Benson Chinedu, before the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos. They are accused of stealing N78,347,100. The defendants were initially arraigned on February 7, 2024, on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy and stealing. The EFCC Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 re-arraigned them on October 28, 2026.
The re-arraignment was conducted before Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe on 20 count charges that include conspiracy, stealing, and retention of proceeds of criminal conduct. The prosecution amended the charges, increasing them from three to 20 counts. According to the charges, the defendants allegedly conspired to defraud Christopher Onuigbo of N78,347,100 in 2023.
One of the counts reads: "Blessing Onyinaya Chimaobi, Uzofor Benson Chinedu and Olisa Charles (at Large) sometimes in 2023 at Lagos within the Jurisdiction of this Honorable Court conspired to defraud one Christopher Onuigbo an aggregate sum of N78, 347,100." Another count states that the defendants dishonestly converted the sum of N78,347,100, the property of Christopher Onuigbo, for their own use between 2018 and 2023.
During the re-arraignment, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. Their prosecution counsel, T.J. Banjo, urged the court to revoke their bail and remand them in a correctional facility. The court subsequently adjourned the matter to February 10, 11, 16, and 17, 2027, for the continuation of the trial.
The EFCC's action is part of its efforts to combat financial crimes in Nigeria. The commission has been actively prosecuting individuals and groups involved in various forms of financial malfeasance. In this case, the EFCC alleges that the defendants were involved in a complex scheme to defraud Onuigbo of a substantial sum of money.
The case has significant implications for the defendants, who face severe penalties if convicted. The EFCC's investigation and prosecution of the case demonstrate its commitment to enforcing the law and protecting the assets of Nigerians. The court will hear further evidence and testimony during the trial.
The trial is expected to continue on the scheduled dates in February 2027. The EFCC will present additional evidence and witnesses to support its case against the defendants. The court's decision will depend on the evidence presented and the arguments made by both the prosecution and the defense.
Key points
- The EFCC re-arraigned two individuals over the alleged stealing of N78.3 million.
- The defendants face 20 count charges, including conspiracy, stealing, and retention of proceeds of criminal conduct.
- The trial has been adjourned to February 10, 11, 16, and 17, 2027, for continuation.
