A dramatic turn of events unfolded in the Federal High Court in Ikoyi yesterday as three Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) joined the defense team for four journalists accused of cyberstalking and defamation against Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) and its CEO, Segun Agbaje. Asiwaju Kunle Kalejaye, Olalekan Ojo, and Kunle Adegoke, accompanied by Barristers Olakunle Afolabi and Adebisi Adeniyi, entered appearances for the defendants [1).
Justice Ayokunle Faji denied the bail application for Precious Eze, Olawale Rotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa, and Seun Odunlami, citing affidavits from both parties. The journalists have been detained at Ikoyi Correctional Centre since September 21, 2024 [1).
The police accuse the journalists of conspiracy, cyberstalking, and publishing false allegations against GTCO and Agbaje. Defense counsel Afolabi argued for bail, stating the alleged offenses are bailable [1).
During cross-examination, police witness Chief Superintendent Abu Michael admitted video evidence doesn’t show defendants waiving legal representation rights. Defendants claim coerced statements [1).
Justice Faji requested evidence substantiating police claims of voluntary statements. CSP Abu attributed lost video recordings to technical issues [1).
Prosecution witness ASP Yaqob Sule testified defendants voluntarily wrote statements in custody. Justice Faji adjourned the case to December 10-12, 2024 [1).
The House of Representatives investigates GTCO and Agbaje for corruption, financial report falsification, and money laundering, sparked by Alhaji Yusuf Kabiru’s petition [1).
GTCO faces scrutiny over unremitted VAT on Remita transactions (2015-2022). Executive Director Ahmed Liman admitted non-payment [1).
Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN) alleges GTCO’s involvement in unsolicited account openings, fictitious profits, money laundering, and terrorism financing [1).
GTCO denied allegations, calling them baseless and unfounded. The bank reassured stakeholders of transparency and excellence [2).
GTCO reported profit before tax of N1.004 trillion, sparking controversy. Critics question financial record authenticity ¹[2).
The journalists’ publications highlighted GTCO’s alleged wrongdoing, prompting investigation [1).
GTCO’s reputation remains under scrutiny amidst ongoing investigations and legal proceedings ¹ ².
