Kehinde Fajobi
The Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos, has revoked the bench warrant issued against former AMCON Managing Director Ahmed Kuru for failing to appear at his arraignment on charges of alleged ₦76 billion fraud.
Justice Mojisola Dada set aside the warrant after Kuru’s counsel, Olasupo Shasore (SAN), apologised and assured the court of his client’s future attendance.
“In view of the attendance of the second defendant in court and the undertaking signed by the learned silk to ensure his attendance at any given time, and with no objection from the prosecution, the application is hereby granted, and the bench warrant set aside,” Justice Dada ruled.
The arraignment of Kuru and his co-defendants was adjourned to 20 January 2025.
Shasore, in a motion dated 12 December, committed to ensuring Kuru’s appearance for arraignment and trial. The EFCC’s counsel, Wahab Shittu (SAN), raised no objection to the revocation.
“We could not contact him like others, but his counsel has assured the court he will appear. On that basis, we will not object to setting aside the warrant,” Shittu stated.
The court had issued the bench warrant on 3 December after Kuru failed to appear for arraignment. Shittu informed the court that Kuru had evaded EFCC’s administrative bail and was unreachable.
Kuru is facing charges alongside Arik Air MD Roy Ilegbodu, receiver-manager Kamilu Omokide, Union Bank, and Super Bravo Limited.
The six-count charge includes abuse of office, fraudulent conversion, and false statements involving ₦76 billion and $31.5 million.
While the other defendants were present during the scheduled arraignment, Kuru’s absence delayed proceedings.