Jelili Gbadamosi
The Just of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Jabi, Abuja, Justice A.A. Fashola has granted bail to Mahwash Benedict Luka and Bennicle Investment Nigeria Limited after they were arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged issuance of two dishonoured cheques worth N20 million.
The defendants were arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on the alleged issuance of dud cheques.
According to the EFCC, Luka, while serving as the Managing Director of Bennicle Investment Nigeria Limited, allegedly issued a First City Monument Bank Plc cheque valued at N10 million to First Bank Nigeria Plc on November 29, 2023, which was dishonoured due to insufficient funds.
The anti-graft agency also alleged that he issued another Sterling Bank Plc cheque worth N10 million to First Bank Nigeria Limited on August 29, 2016, which was similarly dishonoured for lack of sufficient funds.
Both offences are said to contravene Section 1(1) of the Dishonoured Cheques Act and are punishable under Section 1(i)(ii) of the same Act.
Luka pleaded not guilty to the charges on behalf of himself and Bennicle Investment Nigeria Limited.
At the resumed hearing on Friday, defence counsel, I. Ashom, moved a bail application for Luka and urged the court to extend the relief to the company, noting that the first defendant is its Managing Director.
Justice Fashola granted bail to both defendants in the sum of N10 million with one surety of reputable character and a verifiable address.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter until October 22, 2026, for the commencement of trial.
Rewrite this the lead the tile of the person before the name
