AGF Takes Over ICPC Fraud Case Against Mike Ozekhome; 15 SANs Appear for Defendant

The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has taken over the prosecution of the alleged fraud case filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Related Commission (ICPC) against Professor Mike Ozekhome, SAN.

Justice Peter Kekemeke of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory granted the AGF permission to assume control of the case and review the charge file. As a result, Ozekhome’s arraignment, earlier scheduled for Monday, has been adjourned to February 24.

The AGF, through the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mr Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, informed the court that the takeover was in exercise of the powers conferred on the AGF under Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution. Oyedepo said the decision was taken to allow the AGF’s office study the case file and determine the appropriate next steps.

He explained that the move was guided by considerations of public interest and the need to ensure fairness, diligence and strict compliance with due process in the prosecution. According to him, the AGF’s office would also work with the ICPC to ensure the case meets the highest standards of effectiveness and professionalism.

Oyedepo assured the court that the rights of the defendant would be fully protected and that no party would suffer any prejudice as a result of the takeover. He added that inter-agency cooperation in the fight against corruption also informed the decision.

Earlier, the ICPC’s Head of High Profile Prosecution, Dr Osuebeni Akpomesingha Akpos, announced appearance for the prosecution. Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Kanu Agabi, SAN, led a team of 15 Senior Advocates of Nigeria representing Ozekhome.

The ICPC did not oppose the AGF’s takeover of the case, with its counsel assuring the court of the commission’s full cooperation, given its role as the investigating agency.

By agreement of all parties, Justice Kekemeke adjourned the matter to February 24 for arraignment.