A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered that Chinedu Evaristus, an Abuja-based lawyer, be detained until January 15, 2025, in connection with an alleged N58 million advance fee fraud.

Evaristus, who allegedly deceived Engr. Ocheakiti Ojoje into paying N58 million for a non-existent property in Abuja, appeared before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on multiple charges, including conspiracy and fraud.

Evaristus, alongside co-defendants Olakunle Blessing Fayomi, Kingsley Awodi James, and Tabitha Kwon, is accused of scheming to defraud Ojoje by pretending to sell him property supposedly owned by the Academic Staff Union of Universities in Gwarinpa, Abuja. The N58 million was allegedly funneled into Evaristus’ law firm account at Zenith Bank.

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The case saw a twist when the Attorney General’s office sought to take over the prosecution, prompting an adjournment to allow the transition of the case from police to the Ministry of Justice. This decision was made in line with the AGF’s constitutional powers, which Justice Joyce Abdulmalik affirmed as unquestionable.

The charges against the defendants include fraudulently obtaining large sums under false pretenses, forgery, and using fake documents to back up their fraudulent claims. They are also accused of hindering justice by allegedly forging documents like powers of attorney and sale agreements.

The trial is expected to continue after the new year, pending resolution of the procedural shift between the IGP and the AGF. Meanwhile, Evaristus remains in detention as the investigation into the multi-million naira fraud continues.

From Kayode Lawal, Abuja.