UK property fraud: AGF takes over Ozekhome’s trial

The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has formally taken over the prosecution of senior lawyer Mike Ozekhome (SAN) in the alleged fraud charges brought against him by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Ozekhome was to be arraigned today by the ICPC in an Abuja High Court for alleged forgery in United Kingdom property case.

When the matter was called, Dr Osuebeni Akpomesingha announced appearance for the prosecution.

A former AGF and Minister of Justice, Kanu Agabi (SAN), and others announced their appearance for the defendant.

The Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), also announced his appearance on behalf of the AGF.

He informed the court of Fagbemi’s decision to take over the case from the ICPC, adding that the decision was in pursuant to Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution.

The DPPF added that the decision was also guided by public interest and to instil confidence, fairness and competence in the criminal justice.

ICPC to arraign Ozekhome Monday over alleged UK property fraud

He assured the court that the right of the defendant will be protected and that no party suffers any adverse.

Oyedepo stated that inter-agency corporation to fight corruption was also considered by the OAGF.

He therefore asked the court to take judicial notice of the takeover of the trial by the AGF’s Office.

The AGF tsought adjournment to enable his office retrieve the case file from the ICPC to thoroughly review it and take the next line of action.

The ICPC lawyer did not object to the takeover and promised that the commission will cooperate fully with the AGF office, being the agency that investigated the matter.

By consensus of lawyers, Justice Peter Kekemeke adjourned until February 24, 2026, for arraignment.

The Star