EFCC Drags Ex-Banker To Court Over Alleged N294.5m Theft From Customers’ Accounts

Fresh courtroom drama don unfold for Lagos after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraign former Access Bank staff, Chinonso Akujobi, over alleged N294.5m Theft from customers’ accounts. According to the anti-graft agency, the defendant allegedly diverted large sums of money through unauthorized transfers while employed by the bank.

The allegations have attracted widespread attention because they involve customers’ funds and the integrity of Nigeria’s banking system. Although the EFCC has laid multiple charges before the court, Akujobi pleaded not guilty to all counts, meaning the allegations remain unproven until the court reaches a verdict.

N294.5m Theft Allegations Reach High Court

According to the EFCC, between January and December 2025, the former banker allegedly transferred funds without authorization from the bank’s general ledger into accounts said to be linked to him and other named individuals. One of the charges alleges that more than ₦109 million was diverted through unauthorized payments into his Access Bank account.

Following the defendant’s plea of not guilty, the prosecution asked the court to remand him pending trial. Justice I.O. Ijelu subsequently adjourned the matter until October 8, 2026, for the hearing of the bail application and commencement of trial, while ordering that the defendant be remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

The N294.5m Theft allegations remain before the court, and the prosecution must present evidence to support every count filed against the defendant.

N294.5m Theft Case Raises Banking Security Concerns

Financial crime experts say cases involving alleged insider fraud often prompt banks to review internal controls, transaction monitoring systems and staff oversight procedures. They note that financial institutions regularly strengthen compliance measures to reduce opportunities for unauthorized transactions.

Legal analysts also remind the public that every accused person is entitled to a fair hearing. While the allegations are serious, the court—not public opinion—will determine whether the prosecution has proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Meanwhile, social media users don bring small cruise enter the serious matter. Some joke say customer alerts apparently took the wrong bus stop, while others say bank calculators deserve witness protection. Behind the humour, however, many Nigerians are calling for stronger safeguards to protect depositors’ funds.

As the case moves toward trial, attention will remain on the courtroom where evidence and legal arguments will determine the outcome. Until then, the N294.5m Theft allegations remain before the court, and the defendant continues to enjoy the constitutional presumption of innocence.