The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought Ahmed Kuru, former Managing Director of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), and four others to court for allegedly defrauding Arik Airline of N76 billion and $31.5 million.
Other defendants include Kamilu Omokide, former Receiver Manager of Arik Airline Limited; Captain Roy Ilegbodu, the airline’s Chief Executive Officer; and Super Bravo Limited.
The EFCC has filed six counts against the defendants, including theft, abuse of office, and dishonestly taking another’s property. All defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
During the court proceedings, the defence counsel for the first and third defendants, Professor Taiwo Osipitan (SAN), applied for bail, requesting liberal terms. Similarly, Mr Olasupo Shasore (SAN), counsel for the second defendant, sought bail for his client on self-recognition.
Opposing the bail requests, EFCC counsel Wahab Shittu (SAN) expressed concerns that the defendants might abscond.
Justice Mojisola Dada granted bail to each defendant in the sum of N20 million with one surety in like sum. The sureties must be gainfully employed and provide proof of identification. Additionally, the court ordered the defendants to submit their international passports to the court registrar.
The defendants are to remain in the custody of their respective counsel until their bail conditions are fulfilled. The trial is scheduled to begin on March 17.
The EFCC alleges that Kuru, Omokide, and Ilegbodu diverted N4.9 billion through NG Eagle Ltd in 2022. Additionally, Captain Roy Ilegbodu is accused of fraudulently converting N22.5 million to benefit Magashi Ali Mohammed, a property of Arik Airline Ltd.
