….Plead Not Guilty to Fraud Charges
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Ahmed Kuru, the former Managing Director of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), alongside four others, for allegedly defrauding Arik Airline of N76 billion and $31.5 million.
Kuru, who was arraigned alongside Kamilu Omokide, the former Receiver Manager of Arik Air, Captain Roy Ilegbodu, the airline’s CEO, and Super Bravo Ltd., pleaded not guilty to six counts of theft, abuse of office, and stealing.
The defense counsel for Kuru and Ilegbodu requested bail, citing liberal terms, but the prosecution opposed the applications, citing a high risk of flight.
Justice Mojisola Dada granted bail of N20 million each, with the condition that each defendant must provide one surety with proof of employment and identification.
The defendants were also ordered to submit their international passports and remain with their counsel until the bail conditions are met. The trial is scheduled to begin on March 17.
According to the EFCC, Kuru, Omokide, and Ilegbodu fraudulently converted N4.9 billion to their use in 2022, while Ilegbodu allegedly misappropriated N22.5 million belonging to Arik Airline.
The EFCC is seeking to recover the stolen funds and bring the defendants to justice for their alleged role in the fraud.
The case is being closely watched by the public and the aviation industry, which has been plagued by allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
