In an effort to combat financial crimes, the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Oladipo Jimoh and his firm, Barma Energy Resources Limited, before Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos. The charges brought against them include two counts of stealing a staggering sum of $60,334.59.
According to the charges, Oladipo Bankole Jimoh and Barma Energy Resources Limited allegedly converted $47,534.59, belonging to Vale Blue Limited, for their own use between October 11, 2022, and July 2023. They are also accused of dishonestly converting another $12,800, also the property of Vale Blue Limited, during the same period within the Ikeja Judicial Division in Lagos.
During the arraignment, Oladipo Jimoh pleaded “not guilty” to both charges. The prosecution counsel, G.C. Akaogu, then requested a trial date to allow the prosecution to present its case against the defendants. Furthermore, A.K. Akpabio, the defense counsel, informed the court that a bail application had been filed on behalf of her clients.
Justice Dada granted Oladipo Jimoh bail in the sum of N200 million, with two sureties who must each have N100 million in their accounts or possess valuable landed property. The judge emphasized that until the bail conditions are met, the defendant will be remanded in the custody of the EFCC due to the absence of correctional officers in court that day for security reasons.
The trial is scheduled to begin on February 12, 2024, as the EFCC continues its efforts to bring perpetrators of financial crimes to justice. By holding individuals and companies accountable for their actions, the EFCC strives to safeguard the integrity of the financial system and protect the interests of innocent parties affected by such offenses.
