The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Tuesday closed its case against one Onarike Onagoruwa charged with defrauding a woman of N5 million on the pretext of supplying her coconut oil.
Onagoruwa is facing a three-count bordering on obtaining money under false pretences and issuance of a dud cheque, before an Ikeja Special Offences Court.
He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that an EFCC operative, Mr Ademola Agbetuyi, had on May 8, told the court how the defendant allegedly ignored letters of invitation by the commission, which necessitated his arrest.
Agbetuyi testified for the EFCC which is prosecuting the case.
On Tuesday, the witness was cross-examined by defence counsel, Mr Akeem Amusa.
Under cross-examination, the witness reiterated that a post-dated cheque of N6.5 million issued by the defendant to the petitioner was dishonoured due to insufficient funds.
“Our investigation was to follow the money, and nothing showed that the defendant at any time, invested the money in any coconut oil-based business.
“The victim had requested a formal agreement but the defendant was not forthcoming.
“Although the defendant claimed to own one Obanla Farms Nig. Ltd., during our investigation, we found out that there was no physical presence, though it is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission,” he said.
EFCC counsel, Mr Nwandu Ukoha, thereafter told the court that the prosecution would close its case.
Defence counsel prayed the court to recall the first prosecution witness and alleged victim, Mrs Abiodun Adebowale, for cross-examination.
Adebowale was in court.
Under cross-examination, Adebowale told the court that the defendant failed to show up on the day both of them were supposed to sign a formal agreement.
“He had already collected the cheque of N5 million and he kept dodging.
“Since he collected the cheque, he disappeared, and it was lies upon lies, fake addresses and unkept promises,” she said.
Justice Mojisola Dada adjourned the case until June 13 for the defence to open its case.
(NAN)
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