The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned a father-in-law, Alaba Alakija, and his daughter-in-law, Oyinkansola Alakija, before the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on an amended two-count charge of conspiracy and using false documents.
The duo allegedly conspired 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, with the intent to financially benefit from a property located at No.10, Keffi Street, South-west, Ikoyi, Lagos.
At their arraignment, both defendants pleaded "not guilty" to the charges, prompting the prosecution to request a trial date and their remand at a correctional facility.
Counsel to the first defendant, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Yemi Akangbe, informed the court of the bail application filed and served on the prosecution, and subsequently moved the application for bail, urging the judge to grant bail to his client in the most liberal terms.
Counsel to the second defendant, Victor Giwa, requested to be allowed to move his bail application orally, stating that his client, who is also a lawyer, has a nine-month-old baby whom she still breastfeeds and would not jump bail.
However, a dramatic twist occurred when the second defendant's husband disputed the claim, stating that their baby is nine months old.
After considering the arguments, Justice Mojisola Dada 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 court also took possession of the passport of the second defendant. Both defendants were then released to their lawyers pending the perfection of their bail conditions.
The judge adjourned the matter to May 28, 2024, for the commencement of trial. This case marks another step in the EFCC's efforts to combat financial crimes and ensure justice is served in Nigeria.
