The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned former Managing Director of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Ahmed Kuru, and four other individuals for allegedly defrauding Arik Air of N76 billion and $31.5 million.
The other accused are Kamilu Omokide, former Receiver Manager of Arik Airline Limited; Captain Roy Ilegbodu, the airline’s CEO; and Super Bravo Limited.
The defendants are facing six counts, including theft, abuse of office, and stealing by dishonestly taking another’s property. However, all five defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The defence counsel for the first and third defendants, Professor Taiwo Osipitan, SAN, filed a motion seeking bail on liberal terms, while the second defendant’s lawyer, Mr. Olasupo Shasore, SAN, requested bail on self-recognition.
In response, EFCC counsel Mr. Wahab Shittu, SAN, opposed the bail requests, expressing concerns that the defendants might flee the country.
After hearing both parties, Justice Mojisola Dada granted bail to each defendant in the sum of N20 million, with one surety in a similar amount. The sureties must be employed and provide proof of identification. The defendants were also ordered to submit their international passports to the court registrar.
The trial will begin on March 17, and the defendants will remain in their counsel’s custody until bail conditions are met.
EFCC’s charge includes allegations that Kuru, Omokide, and Ilegbodu fraudulently converted N4.9 billion to their use through NG Eagle Ltd in 2022. Additionally, Ilegbodu is accused of stealing N22.5 million and converting it to the benefit of Magashi Ali Mohammed, a property of Arik Airline Ltd.
Peoplesmind
