Ikeja Special Offences Court Rejects No-Case Submission in N110m Fraud Trial of Portia Emilia

In a recent development at the Ikeja Special Offences Court, a significant decision was made in the N110 million fraud trial of Portia Emilia. The court, presided over by Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe, rejected the no-case submission presented by the defendant.

Portia Emilia, along with her company, Savanah Crest Investment Ltd., was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on August 16, 2022, facing charges related to stealing and fraud. She had pleaded not guilty to these charges.

Justice Abike-Fadipe, in her ruling, declared that the prosecution had successfully established a prima facie case against the defendant concerning the amended five-count charge. She stated, “I am satisfied that the prosecution has established a prima facie case, which the defendants are called upon to answer. The no-case submission is hereby overruled, and the defendants are called upon to enter their defense.”

The trial is now set to continue, with the case adjourned until January 18, 2024, to allow the defendant, Portia Emilia, an opportunity to present her defense.

The EFCC, represented by Franklin Ofoma, had alleged that Portia Emilia misappropriated N110 million belonging to Wendy Daniel, converting it for personal use. Throughout the proceedings, the prosecution called two witnesses, presented various documents, and concluded its case on March 16.

In response, the defense filed a no-case submission, contending that the evidence provided by the EFCC did not establish a case against their client. The alleged offenses are said to contravene the Criminal Laws of Lagos State (2015) and the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Fraud Offences Act 2006.

This development marks a significant step in the ongoing legal proceedings, as Portia Emilia prepares to present her side of the story in defense against the charges brought against her. The court’s decision ensures that the trial will proceed as scheduled.