EFCC Arraigns Bank MD, Another Suspect Over Alleged Multi-Million Naira Fraud

The Abuja Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned the Managing Director of Viscount Microfinance Bank, Blessing Gozi-Anyaokei, alongside another defendant, over separate fraud allegations involving millions of naira and foreign currency.

Gozi-Anyaokei was brought before Justice Y. Halilu of the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, on Tuesday, May 12, 2025, on a two-count charge bordering on illegal conversion and obtaining money under false pretence.

According to the EFCC, the defendant allegedly received N19 million from Ernest Terkula Jor in 2022 for investment purposes but dishonestly converted the money for personal use. She was also accused of diverting an additional $30,000 entrusted to her for the same purpose.

The anti-graft agency stated that the offences contravene Sections 311 and 312 of the Penal Code Act.

Gozi-Anyaokei pleaded not guilty to the charges. Following her plea, prosecution counsel S.N. Robert requested a trial date.

Justice Halilu granted her bail on conditions that include providing two sureties with landed property in Abuja, surrendering her travel documents to the court, and obtaining court approval before traveling outside the country.

The case was adjourned until July 19, 2026, for the commencement of trial.

In a related development, the EFCC on Monday, May 11, 2026, arraigned Ugochukwu Daniel Ifeanachor before Justice J.O. Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, over alleged fraud and money laundering involving N20 million.

The commission alleged that Ifeanachor fraudulently obtained N20 million from Ezekwuche Chinedu Paul under the pretext of supplying 55 all-in-one desktop computer systems, a claim investigators said was false.

He was also accused of laundering the funds through his Access Bank account, contrary to provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.

Ifeanachor pleaded not guilty to the charges. Prosecution counsel Joyce Audu subsequently asked the court to fix a trial date.

Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter until July 6, 2026, and ordered that the defendant be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending trial.