Nigerian Court Delays Arik Air Corruption Trial to May 29

The Lagos High Court has adjourned the high-profile corruption trial involving former AMCON Managing Director Ahmed Kuru and four co-defendants until May 29, 2025. The postponement was granted due to the medical absence of Kuru’s lead counsel, Olasupo Shasore.

Kuru is on trial alongside former Arik Air receiver manager Kamilu Omokide, current Arik CEO Roy Ilegbodu, Union Bank Plc, and Super Bravo Ltd. The group faces allegations of defrauding Arik Air of NGN76 billion naira (USD47.8 million) and USD31.5 million.

The case, brought by Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), resumed on May 19 for cross-examination of witnesses. Prosecutors opposed the adjournment, citing delays in a case with serious implications for Nigeria’s aviation sector. However, Judge Mojisola Dada approved the delay due to the lead defense counsel’s overseas medical treatment.

All defendants have pleaded not guilty to the six-count charge, which includes theft, abuse of office, dishonest conversion, and false declarations to a public officer.

According to the EFCC, Union Bank misrepresented Arik Air’s loan status in 2011, facilitating the improper sale of its debt to AMCON. The prosecution alleges that NGN71 billion (USD44.7 million) in questionable transactions followed, with NGN4.9 billion (USD3.1 million) diverted to NG Eagle and other funds misappropriated.

One of the charges also involves the alleged unlawful dismantling of a CRJ900ER aircraft, 5N-JEA (msn 15058), valued at USD31.5 million.

The trial continues to draw attention due to its significance for corporate governance and aviation regulation in Nigeria.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com