A former Head of Operations at Access Bank, Obinna Nwaobi, has been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Enugu State over allegations of diverting a customer’s $510,000 and forging a document to facilitate the fraud.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) disclosed the development in a statement released on Friday.
According to the EFCC, its Enugu Zonal Directorate presented Nwaobi before Justice F. O. Giwa-Ogunbanjo on Thursday. The defendant was docked on charges bordering on fraud, criminal diversion, and document falsification. He, however, pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Details of the Alleged Offence
Investigators allege that Nwaobi, while serving as a senior official within Access Bank, manipulated internal processes to divert the funds belonging to a customer. The prosecution also claims he forged a key document to conceal the fraudulent transaction.
The EFCC stated that the offences violate provisions of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act and other relevant financial regulations.
Case Continues
Following his plea, the court adjourned the matter to allow the prosecution and defence prepare for trial. Nwaobi is expected to remain in custody or meet bail conditions pending the next hearing.
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing financial crime cases, noting that corruption and internal banking fraud pose threats to Nigeria’s financial stability and public trust.
Further updates are expected as the trial progresses.
