In the matter concerning an alleged N4.8 billion fraud, presided over by Justice Oyindamola Ogala of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, Lagos, the proceedings have been adjourned until April 15, 2024. The defendant, Chief Cletus Ibeto, alongside his companies, Ibeto Energy Development Company and Odoh Holdings Ltd., faces ten-count charges brought forth by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The case, originally before Justice I.O. Ijelu, experienced repeated adjournments due to the defendant’s absence for plea-taking. Subsequently, on November 3, 2023, Justice Ijelu declared Ibeto wanted, following an application by EFCC counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, and issued a bench warrant for his arrest. However, during the hearing on January 29, 2024, it was revealed that the case file had been returned to the Chief Judge of the State High Court and subsequently reassigned to Justice Ogala.
During the recent session, Dr. Babajide Martins appeared on behalf of the Lagos State Attorney General, expressing intent to assume involvement in the case. Defense counsel, Ade Oshodi, raised a preliminary objection dated January 26, 2024, pending court review. Additionally, Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, the former defense counsel, had filed an application before Justice Ijelu, which Oshodi requested to withdraw in favor of the new application dated January 26, 2024.
Oshodi also highlighted Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN’s appeal against the bench warrant issued by Justice Ijelu. In response, Jacobs clarified that various attorneys had represented the defendant previously, addressing concerns of territorial jurisdiction raised during the case’s prior proceedings. Jacobs further noted ongoing negotiations, revealing that the defendant had paid N1.5 billion to EFCC and committed to settling the remaining amount within three months.
Regarding the appearance of state counsel, Jacobs expressed disappointment at the lack of communication, stating, “though they said they are taking over the case, they have not even heard from us.”
Following deliberation, Justice Ogala adjourned the proceedings until April 15, 2024, to review the case file and all submitted applications. She instructed all parties to exchange responses before the adjourned date, emphasizing the importance of alignment among all involved parties.
