The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday re-arraigned Francis Atuche, the former Managing Director of the defunct Bank PHB Plc, alongside two co-defendants, Nnosiri Joachim (a.k.a. Ifeanyi) and Uguru Onyike, on a nine-count charge of conspiracy to commit a felony and forgery.
Fresh Arraignment Before Justice Abike-Fadipe
The arraignment occurred at the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos, presided over by Justice O. O. Abike-Fadipe. This re-arraignment follows multiple reassignments of the case, which was initially heard by Justice Habeeb Abiru before his elevation to the Court of Appeal and later by Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo, who has since been transferred to another division.
Allegations of Forgery
The charges against the defendants include forgery of a document titled “Board Resolution” of Future View Securities Limited, dated December 17, 2007. The EFCC accuses the defendants of forging the document with intent to defraud.
One of the charges reads:
“That you, Mr. Francis Atuche, Nnosiri Joachim (a.k.a Ifeanyi), and Uguru Onyike, on or about the 4th day of March, 2013, in Lagos, within the Ikeja Judicial Division, with intent to defraud, conspired to commit felony to wit: forgery of a document titled: ‘Board Resolution’ of Future View Securities Limited dated 17th December, 2007.”
The defendants all pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Bail Conditions Maintained
Justice Abike-Fadipe upheld the existing bail conditions previously granted by Justice Onigbanjo, allowing the defendants to remain on bail pending trial.
Trial Dates Scheduled
The court has adjourned the matter for trial, setting the following dates: May 6, 7, 8, 13, 20, and 27, 2025.
This case highlights the EFCC’s efforts to address alleged financial crimes involving top executives in Nigeria’s banking and financial sectors.
