Tunde Ayeni landed in Kuje Correctional Centre on Monday. A Federal Capital Territory High Court ordered his remand pending bail hearing.
Ayeni, ex-chairman of defunct Skye Bank Plc, faces 17 counts of money laundering. The EFCC alleges he moved roughly N8 billion illegally.
Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie made the ruling after Ayeni's lead counsel requested time. Ahmed Raji (SAN) told the court the defence needed space to pursue bail.
The bail hearing is set for May 13, 2026. That's when Ayeni's legal team will present arguments for his release.
Ayeni pleaded not guilty to all charges in court Monday. His denial came immediately after prosecutors detailed the accusations against him.
Prosecution counsel Ekele Iheanacho (SAN) pushed for his continued detention. She asked the judge to keep him locked up until trial begins.
But Raji countered with fresh ammunition for his client. He revealed the defence filed a bail application that same Monday morning.
According to Raji, the EFCC served charges on May 1. That date was a public holiday, he noted to the court.
Raji painted Ayeni as a respectable figure in legal circles. The businessman has practised law for over 35 years, counsel reminded the judge.
He promised Ayeni would show up for all proceedings. "He will present himself whenever the court requires," Raji assured Justice Onwuegbuzie.
The court granted Raji's request for an adjournment. Both sides now await the May 2026 hearing date.
Meanwhile, prosecutors want the trial to start soon. They're preparing their case against the banking industry figure.
