Alleged N582m fraud: Trial of former cooperative chief set for November 23

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja set November 23 for the arraignment of Olalekan Ogunbayo, former president of the NNPCL Staff Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society, over alleged involvement in a ₦582 million fraud. Ogunbayo was absent and faces an eight-count charge including alleged misappropriation, abuse of office and corrupt practices. EFCC prosecutors sought a bench warrant, saying he had missed three hearings and could not be located to receive the charge. His lawyer opposed the request, saying Ogunbayo remained on administrative bail, was in Warri and had not been properly informed of the hearing; Justice Lesley Wike adjourned the case and warned that the court would take action if he failed to appear again.