The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has filed a three-count charge against prominent Nigerian lawyer, Mike Ozekhome, over allegations of fraud related to a property in London. The charges, filed at the Abuja High Court, accuse Ozekhome of complicity in a large-scale corruption case.
According to the ICPC, Ozekhome, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), allegedly received a London property, House 79, Randall Avenue, as a gift from one Mr. Shani Tali in August 2021. The commission claims that this act constitutes a felony, contrary to the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
The charges also allege that Ozekhome created a false document, a Nigerian passport, bearing the name of Mr. Shani Tali, with the intention of using it to support his claim of ownership of the London property. This offence is said to be contrary to the Penal Code of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, 2006.
Furthermore, Ozekhome is accused of dishonestly using the false passport to support his claim of ownership of the property, despite knowing that the document was false. The ICPC has attached a list of exhibits to support the charges, including a judgment, an extra-judicial statement from Ozekhome, and other relevant documents.
The commission has listed several witnesses to testify against Ozekhome, including investigators from the ICPC and a representative from the Nigerian Immigration Service. The case is yet to be assigned to a judge, and it remains to be seen how it will unfold.
This development is significant, as it highlights the ongoing efforts of the ICPC to tackle corruption and related offences in Nigeria. The case against Ozekhome, a prominent figure in the country’s legal community, underscores the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their status or position.
As the case progresses, it is likely to generate significant interest and attention, both within Nigeria and internationally. The outcome will be closely watched, as it may have implications for the country’s anti-corruption efforts and the rule of law. With the ICPC continuing to investigate and prosecute cases of corruption, this development is a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in all aspects of Nigerian society.
