The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned three staff of Wema Bank to court. They’re accused of being part of a ₦8.5 billion fraud.
The suspects—Samuel Ihechukwu Asiegbu, Fabian Chizaram Onyeimachi, and Kingsley Kelechi Ejim—were brought before the Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday.
They were charged alongside four others, namely Hanna Okunlola, Hamza Zakariya, Achionu Chukwuka Ubaku, and Sunday Osademe.
According to the EFCC, the suspects manipulated data in bank computers and moved funds into various accounts for personal gain.
How the Alleged Fraud Was Carried Out
The EFCC said the fraud occurred in January 2025 and involved hacking into the internal systems of Wema Bank. The suspects reportedly altered, erased, and uploaded new data to gain unauthorized access to dormant and active accounts.
The charge sheet read: “You knowingly and without authority caused the loss of an aggregate sum of ₦8,568,090,500, property of Wema Bank Plc., by altering, erasing, and inputting data held in bank accounts.”
It further alleged that the group acted together to “confer economic benefit to yourselves.”
Some accomplices are still at large, including individuals named Nurudeen Ibrahim and Alhaji Sulaiman.
Court Hearing and Bail Conditions
The suspects all pleaded not guilty to the eight-count charge, which includes conspiracy and obtaining money under false pretence.
The EFCC counsel, Aso Peters, asked the court for a trial date. He also requested that all defendants be remanded at the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) facility.
However, the lawyer representing Hanna Okunlola appealed that she remain in EFCC custody due to her health condition.
Trial Judge Daniel Osiagor approved this request and set June 6, 2025, for the beginning of the trial.
Five of the suspects were remanded in NCoS custody, while Kingsley Ejim was allowed to continue on his existing bail arrangement.
EFCC sources say the commission is working with cybersecurity experts to trace the full movement of the stolen funds and identify the remaining accomplices.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment, share this article and Follow us on our social media handles.
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
