The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged a man who describes himself as a native doctor, Olorunbukunmi Taiwo, and his wife, Awolegan Omolola Omotola, over an alleged fraud involving N1.09 billion.
The couple appeared before the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti on six charges, including obtaining money through false claims and keeping money believed to be proceeds of crime.
According to the EFCC, a widow and private school owner from Delta State, Anazia Colina Kenechukwu, reported the matter. She claimed Taiwo convinced her to invest in a road construction project, saying he had been awarded a contract by the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).
Investigators said the couple allegedly received N1,098,961,500 from the woman between January 2024 and November 2025. The EFCC believes part of the money was used to buy properties in Ado-Ekiti, including Town Tavern Lounge and a four-bedroom bungalow.
The anti-graft agency also said it had already obtained a court order to temporarily seize the properties while investigations continue.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Justice Abubakar Usman adjourned the case until June 11, 2026, for the hearing of their bail application and the start of trial. The court ordered that they remain in EFCC custody until then.
The EFCC also told the court that it had secured an interim forfeiture order on the two properties allegedly purchased with proceeds of the fraud. The order was granted on May 25, 2026, pending the outcome of the case.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to all six charges when they were read in court. Following their plea, the EFCC asked the court to fix a trial date and remand them pending further proceedings.
Justice Abubakar Usman adjourned the matter until June 11, 2026, for the hearing of their bail application and the commencement of trial. He also ordered that the defendants remain in EFCC custody until their bail request is determined.
