The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Anambra State-based legal practitioner, Mike Ikegbunam, before a Federal High Court in Enugu for his alleged involvement in a N77 million land scam.

Ikegbunam, who was engaged by the Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes, and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI) at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi chapter, is accused of misappropriating funds amounting to approximately N81 million. The funds were meant for securing plots of land at Umuagu Ozu, Ndiukwuenu town in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The EFCC’s investigation revealed that the legal practitioner allegedly diverted the funds for personal use, including acquiring properties for himself. Consequently, Ikegbunam has been charged with seven counts of Advance Fee Fraud.

During the court proceedings, Ikegbunam pleaded not guilty to the charges. The EFCC’s prosecuting counsel, A.Y. Abdullahi, requested a date for a proper hearing. A.J. Anyigor, the defendant’s counsel, presented a bail application, asserting that Ikegbunam, as a respected citizen in society, would not evade bail.

As arguments unfolded, Ikegbunam defended himself from the dock, highlighting his legal standing and societal contributions: “I’m a lawyer of roughly 20 years standing, blessed by God, and I’m doing well, a member of the Igwe cabinet and a knight of high repute.”

Justice Mohammed Umar, in his ruling, considered the reasons provided by the defendant’s counsel and granted bail, stipulating the deposit of Ikegbunam’s Call to Bar Certificate as a condition. The judge directed that the suspect be remanded in the Correctional Centre until he fulfills the bail conditions.

The substantive suit is scheduled for hearing on March 21, 2014.