RCCG Pastor And Senior Lawyer Arraigned For Alleged Forgery And Fraud
A Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) pastor and senior lawyer, Mr. Leslie Victor Michael-Atata, has been arraigned before a Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on allegations of forgery, impersonation, and fraudulent misrepresentation. The charges were brought against him alongside his company, Viktor AG Ltd., in a case that has drawn significant attention within legal and religious circles.
The defendants face a three-count charge relating to conspiracy, impersonation, and fraudulent conduct in connection with property transactions dating back to 1993. The charges stem from a criminal complaint filed by Feljohn Nigeria Limited, represented by Legal Answers LLP.
Allegations Against the Defendants
The prosecution alleges that Mr. Michael-Atata, acting in his capacity as legal practitioner and secretary to Feljohn Nigeria Limited, fraudulently converted a property located at No. 1 Kaduna Street, D/Line, Port Harcourt. It is claimed that despite knowing the property had been sold to Baldwyne Holdings Limited, he obtained a sublease through his company, Viktor AG Ltd., in violation of his fiduciary duties.
Key charges include:
1. Conspiracy to commit forgery under Section 516 of the Criminal Code Act.
2. Impersonation and forgery of the signature of Feljohn’s secretary, contrary to Section 1(1)(c) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act.
3. Fraudulent misrepresentation as Feljohn’s secretary, in violation of Section 484 of the Criminal Code Act.
Court Proceedings
At the arraignment, the defence counsel, Mr. James Ordu, challenged the court’s jurisdiction, citing the transaction’s location in Port Harcourt and ongoing related appeals at the Court of Appeal. He argued that administrative bail previously granted by the Commissioner of Police was still valid.
In response, prosecutor Mr. Samuel Ogala maintained that both civil and criminal cases could proceed concurrently, noting that the complainant resides in Lagos and that the charges applied nationwide under the Criminal Code Act and Miscellaneous Offences Act.
Justice Ibrahim Kala ruled against the defence’s jurisdictional objection, stating that the charges, as filed, are not geographically restricted and are valid under the applicable legal provisions.
Bail and Trial
The defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges. The prosecution requested the remand of Mr. Michael-Atata in custody, but his counsel cited his health condition and professional pedigree, urging the court to grant bail.
Justice Kala granted Mr. Michael-Atata bail in the sum of ₦50 million with one surety in like amount. The surety must own landed property in Lagos or Ogun State worth ₦50 million, with title documents deposited in court. Alternatively, the surety could surrender qualifying and Call to Bar certificates. Other requirements include recent passport photographs, BVN, NIN, and contact information for verification.
The case was adjourned to February 20, 2025, for the commencement of trial.
