... Describes report as ‘baseless smear campaign’
The Chairman of Delta Trust Mortgage Bank Ltd., Hon. Jude Omena Ogbimi, has denied recent allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of authority brought against him, calling them unfounded and a deliberate smear campaign aimed at derailing the bank's ongoing reforms.
Ogbimi while responding to the accusations published by an online news outlet—claimed he engaged in corrupt practices, including transferring ₦300 million to a supposed account. He condemned the report as a “sensationalized piece” full of falsehoods.
In a detailed rebuttal, Ogbimi described the allegations as “childish, unfounded, and in most cases outright lies,” asserting that the campaign is meant to tarnish his reputation and distract from the progress being made at Delta Trust Mortgage Bank under his leadership.
Addressing specific accusations, Ogbimi clarified he did not force entry into the bank's vault for a cash count, explaining that a recent familiarization tour of the bank’s branches in Asaba, Warri, and Abuja was part of standard operational assessments. “During the tour, we identified weaknesses in accounting records and internal controls, which the board is now addressing,” he stated.
He further refuted the claim of entering the vault with political aides, calling it “a blatant falsehood.” He emphasized that the board's responsibility is to ensure oversight and correct critical gaps within the bank’s operations—not engage in unlawful activities.
Ogbimi also dismissed accusations of embezzlement, intimidation, and abuse of power, labelling them as “mischievous and misleading.” He highlighted the board’s efforts to improve the work environment, including the installation of new air conditioners at the Asaba branch and renovations at the Warri branch—steps met with appreciation from the staff. "The bank's staff were jubilant and even offered prayers for the board after these improvements," he noted, adding that the alleged "toxic environment" does not exist at Delta Trust Mortgage Bank.
The chairman addressed claims of excessive board meetings, clarifying that the board has convened only once a month in compliance with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) guidelines. Given the absence of a functional board for nearly a year before his appointment, he explained, frequent meetings were necessary to expedite urgent reforms. "Regular oversight is standard practice as stipulated by the CBN, especially following an extended period without board leadership," he added.
In response to allegations of mismanaged contracts, Ogbimi stated that only one contract had been awarded—for the renovation of the bank’s headquarters—and categorically denied inflating or awarding any other contracts. The decision to open an account with Premium Trust Bank, he explained, was based on securing optimal interest Bank for personal gain," he emphasized.
Regarding claims of hiring unqualified personnel, Ogbimi clarified that employment decisions at Delta Trust Mortgage Bank are based solely on qualifications and competence, with no involvement from him in the hiring process.
He also dismissed rumours of a personal relationship with the head of the Abuja branch, calling it “wicked and insensitive.” "The Abuja branch head has 24 years of banking experience and was hired on merit," he clarified. "There is no personal relationship between us, and the bank maintains a strict policy against conflicts of interest."
Ogbimi urged the public to disregard the allegations and reaffirmed the board’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He highlighted recent accomplishments, including plans to open new branches in Ughelli, Ozoro, Agbor, and Sapele, as part of a strategic initiative to expand the bank’s reach and enhance its financial performance.
"The reforms we are implementing have brought accountability and transparency to the bank," Ogbimi stated. "Our focus remains on elevating Delta Trust Mortgage Bank to a regional financial institution, and we will continue serving the people of Delta State with integrity and professionalism."
