Abuja, Nigeria โ September 19, 2024
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) have provided their positions in an ongoing legal case involving businessman Benjamin Joseph, who is facing allegations of blackmail and fraud.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court had previously placed a restraining order on the AGF and the IGP concerning an eight-year lawsuit involving false information against Joseph. On June 22, 2024, the court prevented any actions that might undermine the lawsuitโs validity.
During a recent court session, Justice Inyang Ekwo scheduled a hearing for November 14, 2024. The case centers on claims that Joseph, the owner of Citadel Oracle Concept Limited, made false allegations against Zinox Chairman Leo Stan Ekeh, involving an alleged fraud of N170 million related to a Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) contract.
The plaintiffs, Chief Onny S. Igbokwe and Princess O. Kama, argue that Joseph misled the police with false information. They have challenged the AGFโs directive to the IGP to drop the charges against Joseph, asserting it is unconstitutional and an abuse of power.
Josephโs legal team has denied these claims, arguing that the AGF acted within his constitutional rights when he instructed the IGP to discontinue the case. They contend that the allegations against Joseph are malicious and aimed at thwarting justice.
In a recent affidavit, the IGPโs office indicated that a forensic examination confirmed that Joseph’s signature was not forged. This case reportedly emerged after a failed personal relationship between Joseph and Kama.
The AGFโs office has countered that it is unusual for charges to be pursued without valid grounds. They assert that the AGFโs decisions were made based on thorough review and are within legal authority.
At the court hearing on September 18, 2024, discussions included a potential referral to the Court of Appeal for clarification on the AGFโs powers. Justice Ekwo indicated that he would consider all submissions before making a decision.
The case is set to continue in November, with implications for the ongoing legal disputes surrounding the alleged fraud and blackmail.
