Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - The Federal High Court in Lagos is set to begin the trial of Jerald Uche Lebechi, a Lagos-based businessman, and his firm, Monarch and Co International Limited, over an alleged $236,400 fraud on June 24, 2025.
The case will be heard before Justice Ibrahim Ahmad Kala.
The Inspector General of Police has filed a 21-count amended charge against
Lebechi, accusing him of conspiracy and obtaining money under false pretences.
The prosecution stems from a petition dated January 13,
2025, submitted by Lawyer, Ese P. Okiti of Columbus Okaro & Co, acting on
behalf of Mr Venatus Onwughalu.
The petitioner alleged that Lebechi fraudulently collected
$236,400 in August 2021, claiming it was for the processing of travel documents
to Grenada for Onwughalu and his family, a promise that was never fulfilled,
with no subsequent refund provided.
According to the complaint, when pressed for a refund,
Lebechi issued 15 cheques worth N10 million each, totalling N150 million, all
of which were returned unpaid due to insufficient funds.
A police investigation reportedly established a prima facie
case, prompting the initial charges filed on March 14, 2025, and their
subsequent amendment on April 7.
The trial is expected to commence on June 24.
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