Enugu court upholds jurisdiction in property fraud case

The Enugu State High Court on Monday ruled in favour of the state government against a motion challenging its jurisdiction in a property-related case.

The motion was filed by legal practitioner, Mr Rick Chukwu, who faces three-count of alleged forgery, false information, and intention to defraud the late Mr Okwudili Aneke.

Aneke’s property was reportedly placed under the care of Mr Victor Ekwo, whom Chukwu allegedly attempted to dispossess through fraudulent actions.

In her ruling, Justice R.N. Orji held that the High Court possessed jurisdiction to prosecute the case despite objections raised by the defence counsel.

The judge cited exhibit one attached to the respondent’s counter-affidavit of July 13, confirming the prosecution had earlier withdrawn the case from a magistrate court.

She emphasised that the withdrawal was duly effected and recognised.

Justice Orji further observed that Chukwu had failed to comply with a previous court order directing him to submit his international passport for custody.

Our correspondent reports that the legal practitioner pleaded not guilty to the charges immediately after the ruling on jurisdiction.

Orji admitted Chukwu to bail in the sum of ₦2 million, his international passport, and a property in Enugu with a valid Certificate of Occupancy.

She adjourned the matter to Oct. 13 for continuation of hearing.