The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered Oba Otudeko to take a plea in the N30bn loan fraud case filed by the EFCC

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has directed prominent businessman Oba Otudeko to take his plea in the case filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The order was issued by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke on Monday.

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Otudeko, along with three other individuals, is facing a 13-count charge relating to an alleged N30 billion loan fraud.

The EFCC has accused the group of involvement in fraudulent activities linked to the loan, a case that has drawn significant attention due to Otudeko’s high-profile status.

At the hearing, Justice Aneke stated that Otudeko must enter a plea before the court can address any application challenging the jurisdiction of the court in the matter. The judge also set the next court date for May 8, 2025, when further proceedings will take place.

This case marks a significant development in the ongoing battle between Otudeko and the EFCC. Previously, Otudeko had been absent from court on several occasions, citing medical reasons for his absence, as his lawyer informed the court that the businessman was undergoing treatment in London.

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As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes will be on the upcoming hearing in May, which may bring more clarity on the progress of the case and its potential implications.