The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought charges against Alaba Alakija and his daughter-in-law, Oyinkansola Alakija, before Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos. The charges relate to alleged conspiracy and the use of false documents.

According to the amended two-count charge, the defendants are accused of conspiring to use a false document titled “Vesting Deed by Dr. Omodele Alakija and Mr. Afolabi Alakija,” with the intention of benefiting financially from a property located at No.10, Keffi Street, South-west, Ikoyi, Lagos, purportedly made by Dr. Omodele Alakija and Mr. Afolabi Alakija, executors of the estate of the late Sir Ademola Alakija.

Both defendants pleaded “not guilty” to the charges.

The prosecution counsel, M. S. Owede, requested a trial date and the remand of the defendants at a correctional facility.

Counsel to the first defendant, M.O. Akangbe, SAN, sought bail for his client, presenting a bail application to the court. He urged the court to grant bail to his client in the most liberal terms.

Counsel to the second defendant, Victor Giwa, moved the bail application orally, citing circumstances including the defendant’s status as a lawyer with a nine-month-old baby.

After hearing both sides, Justice Dada granted bail to the first defendant in the sum of N10 million, with sureties in like sum required to submit their international passports to the court. The passport of the second defendant was retained by the court.

The trial was adjourned to May 28, 2024, for commencement.