By DAYO ADESULU
Key Witness Testifies as Trial Adjourned Until October 18
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) called its 15th witness on Thursday in the ongoing money laundering trial of former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose. The witness, Mr. Joseph Machleb, provided testimony regarding his involvement with a company linked to the allegations.
Witness Testifies on Company Operations
During the court proceedings, Mr. Machleb, who is not fluent in English, identified himself as a mechanic for Samchase Nigeria Ltd., a construction company based in Akure, Ondo State. He confirmed under examination by prosecutor Mr. Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) that he co-founded a company called JJ Technical Services Ltd. with his brother, which was later handed over to Azeez Michelle for contract solicitation.
When questioned about the company’s involvement in property transactions, Machleb stated, “I don’t know anything about that,” asserting that he only authorized Michelle to seek contracts.
Cross-Examination Reveals Gaps in Knowledge
During cross-examination by defense counsel Mr. Olalekan Ojo (SAN), the witness admitted he did not provide written authorization for Michelle to execute transactions on behalf of JJ Technical Services. Ojo presented a document dated November 20, 2013, to refresh the witness’s memory, which Machleb recognized as signed by him and was subsequently admitted as Exhibit A20.
Further questioning revealed that while Michelle was authorized to sign documents for the company, Machleb claimed ignorance regarding any transactions executed under the authority of Exhibit A20. He also stated that he had never received any documentation related to transactions involving the company and denied any dealings with a man named Biodun Agbele.
Discussion of Company Integrity and Trust
The witness confirmed to the court that JJ Technical Services conducted its business legitimately and had authorized Michelle to act on its behalf based on trust. He maintained that he had no reason to doubt Michelle’s integrity in executing company transactions.
Background on Fayose’s Legal Troubles
The trial is centered around allegations against Fayose concerning a fraudulent scheme involving N6.9 billion. He was first arraigned on October 22, 2018, but the case has since shifted to Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke due to procedural petitions from the EFCC. Fayose has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The EFCC claims that Fayose, along with Abiodun Agbele, received N1.2 billion for his gubernatorial campaign, which allegedly constitutes part of the proceeds of crime. Other accusations include receiving a cash payment of $5 million from former Minister of State for Defence, Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, and using crime proceeds to acquire properties in Lagos and Abuja.
Next Steps in the Trial
The court adjourned the trial until October 18 for further proceedings. The EFCC continues to lead witnesses in the case against Fayose, who is facing multiple charges under the Money Laundering Prohibition Act of 2011.
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