The Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Maitama on Tuesday heard the arraignment of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome, over allegations that he submitted forged documents, including a Nigerian passport, in a bid to assert ownership of a property located at 79 Randall Avenue, London. The property is linked to the estate of late General Jeremiah Useni, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and senior military officer.
The charges were initially filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) but were later taken over by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi (SAN). During the proceedings, Counsel to the AGF, Rotimi Oyedepo, applied to withdraw the charges, explaining that the AGF’s office intended to review and harmonise issues involving multiple investigative agencies to reinforce the case.
Witnesses presented on behalf of Ozekhome, including one identified as Mr. Tali Shani, claimed that ownership of the property had been transferred through a Power of Attorney. Following submissions, the Presiding Judge, Justice Peter Kekemeke, struck out the charges.
Meanwhile, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly taken Ozekhome into custody and is preparing to file fresh charges against him in connection with the long‑running property dispute in London.
By Bimbo Adenrele, Abuja
