Kemisola Oye
FOR allegedly counterfeiting the sum of $290, 000, 00, Justice Nicholas Oweibo of a Federal High Court, Lagos has ordered the remand of three men: Adekunle Akinseinde Alabi, Bakare Taofeek Ajibola and Olawepo Segun Ayinde in the custody Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The judge’s order was sequel to their arrangement on four counts charge of conspiracy, offer for sale, dealing and possession of counterfeit $290, 000, 00.
The EFCC prosecutor, Emeka Akaogu, told the court that the defendants committed the offence in Lagos, on 20th January 2023.
He said that the offence is contrary to and punishable under sections 6(2)(b) and 5(1}(b) and punishable under sections 4(1) and 5(1}(b)of Counterfeit Currency (Special Provisions) Act Cap. C35, Law of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
Following the plea of not guilty by the defendants, the prosecutor asked for a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendants the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS) till the determination of the charges against them.
But the defendants’ counsel, Mr. I. Chiaha, prayed the court that his clients have opted to plea bargain.
He, therefore, asked the court for a short time for him to finalise the plea bargain arrangement.
He also pleaded with the court to remand his clients in EFCC custody on the ground that the first and second defendants are battling serious health challenges.
The prosecutor however responded that he was not aware of the defendants’ health issues.
After hearing their submissions, Justice Oweibo ordered that the defendants be remanded in EFCC custody for two weeks, and be moved to the facility of the NCoS if they are unable to complete and bring the application for the plea bargain arrangement before the court.
The judge subsequently adjourned the matter till 26 June for trial.
Eighteen-Eleven Media