The courtroom witnessed high drama as the legal counsel for Oba Otudeko, Chairman of the Honeywell Group, and others, raised objections over procedural lapses in the N12.3 billion fraud case.
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.
However, the defence counsel, led by Mr Bode Olanipekun (SAN), announced their appearance “in protest,” citing non-service of the charge on the defendants.
Interestingly, Oba Otudeko has denied the allegations, stating that he never served in an executive capacity within FBN Holdings and its banking subsidiary, First Bank of Nigeria Limited.
He also clarified that neither he nor his legal team has received any official summons or invitation from relevant authorities.
The prosecutor, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), admitted challenges in serving the defendants but assured the court of ongoing efforts.
The court approved substituted service at the defendants’ last known addresses, and Justice Aneke adjourned the matter to February 13 for arraignment.
