A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has dismissed a no-case submission filed by Professor Dibu Ojerinde, the former Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), in his ongoing corruption trial. The court’s decision paves the way for the accused to formally begin his defence in a case involving an alleged N5.2 billion fraud.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu delivered the ruling on Tuesday, stating that the evidence presented by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) sufficiently established a prima facie case against the defendant. According to the judge, the prosecution’s witnesses have provided testimony that justifies the continuation of the trial.
“The no-case submission fails and is hereby dismissed,” Justice Egwuatu declared while adjourning the case to July 16 for Ojerinde to open his defence.
Allegations of Massive Financial Misconduct
The ICPC charged Ojerinde in 2021 with an 18-count charge bordering on corruption, criminal breach of trust, and money laundering. According to the agency, Ojerinde allegedly committed the offences while serving as Registrar of two federal examination bodies—JAMB and the National Examinations Council (NECO).
The anti-corruption body alleged that Ojerinde fraudulently diverted a total of N5.2 billion in public funds during his tenure at the two institutions. Investigators claim he misappropriated government resources and repeatedly used his position to grant himself unlawful financial benefits.
Violations of Anti-Corruption and Fraud Laws
The charges against Ojerinde include violations of sections 19, 24, and 25(1)(a) and (b) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. Additionally, some counts fall under section 1(1)(b) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act of 2006.
Prosecution counsel Ebenezer Shogunle submitted documentary evidence and called multiple witnesses to build the case. The court agreed that this body of evidence warranted a formal defence by the accused.
Among the accusations was the claim that Ojerinde used his office to channel public funds into private investments and entities linked to his personal interests. These actions, according to the ICPC, amounted to corrupt enrichment and abuse of office.
Failed Plea Bargain and Strategic Delay
Earlier in February 2022, Ojerinde attempted to negotiate a plea bargain through his legal counsel, Ibrahim Ishyaku (SAN). However, those talks collapsed, and the case returned to full trial.
Following the closure of the prosecution’s case, Ojerinde submitted a no-case application, arguing that the ICPC failed to prove its allegations and that he had no case to answer. His legal team contended that the testimonies presented did not link him directly to any wrongdoing. However, the judge disagreed, concluding that the evidence raised significant issues that the accused must address in his defence.
Court Insists on Defence to Clear Doubts
The court’s decision to overrule the no-case submission reinforces the principle that when evidence establishes enough suspicion or inference of criminal conduct, the defendant must be given an opportunity to respond through a formal defence.
The ruling has significant implications, as it signals the court’s belief that the case is strong enough to proceed beyond a preliminary hearing. If found guilty, Ojerinde could face substantial penalties, including imprisonment and restitution orders, under Nigeria’s anti-corruption laws.
ICPC Continues to Pursue High-Profile Cases
This trial represents one of several high-profile cases the ICPC is currently prosecuting in its effort to combat systemic corruption in Nigeria’s public service. Ojerinde’s tenure at NECO and JAMB, both key agencies in Nigeria’s education sector, has come under increased scrutiny due to the sheer magnitude of the alleged fraud.
The ICPC maintains that holding public officials accountable for the misuse of public funds is vital for restoring integrity to government institutions and ensuring that funds earmarked for education and national development are not siphoned.
Looking Ahead
With the court rejecting his no-case submission, Ojerinde is now expected to present his defence starting July 16. The outcome of the trial could serve as a critical benchmark in the fight against corruption within Nigeria’s educational institutions.
As the proceedings continue, public interest in the case remains high, particularly given the reputation and influence Ojerinde once wielded in Nigeria’s academic regulatory environment. His defence will determine whether he can counter the charges that have now been deemed substantial enough by the court to warrant a full trial.
