The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested one Alaba Alakija and his daughter-in-law, Oyinkansola Alakija for allegedly conspiring to commit fraud.
The Lagos Zonal command arraigned the suspects on Monday, before Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos.
EFCC Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, in a statement on April 15 said they were arraigned on an amended two-count charge that bordered on alleged conspiracy and using false documents.
A charge sheet read in part: “Alaba Alakija and Oyinkansola Alakija, on or about the 6th day of August 2015 at Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to financially benefit from the property located at No.10, Keffi Street, South-west, Ikoyi, Lagos, conspired amongst yourselves to use a false document titled ‘Vesting Deed by Dr Omodele Alakija and Mr Afolabi Alakija,’ the executors of the estate of the late Sir Ademola Alakija, purporting same to be made by Dr Omodele Alakija and Mr Afolabi Alakija.”
The prosecution counsel, M. S. Owede prayed to the court for a trial date and the remand of the defendants at a correctional facility, after they pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Counsel to the first defendant, M.O. Akangbe, informed the court of the bail application of his client, which he said he had filed and served on the prosecution.
While praying to move the application, he urged the court to grant bail to his client in the most liberal terms.
However, counsel to the second defendant, Victor Giwa, prayed to the court to move the bail application for his client orally. He told the court that he was informed about the matter late and that he came from outside the jurisdiction of the court.
Giwa further stated that his client has a two-month-old baby, whom she still breastfeeds, and that she would not jump bail.
However, in a dramatic twist, the second defendant’s husband debunked the claim and told the court that their baby was already nine months old.
Justice Dada upon listening to both parties, granted bail to the first defendant in the sum of N10 million, with sureties in like sum, who must submit their international passports to the court.
The judge then adjourned the matter to May 28, 2024, for the commencement of trial.
