Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed an appeal at the Supreme Court of Nigeria to revoke bail granted to Lagos socialite Fred Chijindu Ajudua by the Court of Appeal in Lagos.
The notice of appeal, dated February 20, 2026, challenges the appellate court’s January 30, 2026 ruling that admitted Ajudua to bail in his ongoing trial for allegedly defrauding Palestinian businessman Zad Abu Zalaf of $1.043 million.
EFCC counsel S.K. Atteh argued the Court of Appeal erred by dismissing the prosecution’s preliminary objection and granting bail, contrary to the Supreme Court’s May 9, 2025 judgment ordering Ajudua’s custody pending speedy trial.
The agency faulted the appellate court’s interpretation of the apex court’s ruling on jurisdiction and bail, asserting it violated Sections 235 and 275(1) of the 1999 Constitution by revisiting a settled matter.
EFCC contested reliance on Ajudua’s November 19, 2025 medical report citing long-standing kidney issues since 1987, alleging inconsistencies and prior use to delay proceedings since the 2005 charge.
The Commission warned that bail would frustrate the speedy trial directive, noting minimal progress with only one witness called previously despite bail.
EFCC seeks revocation of the January 30 bail, restoration of the trial court’s November 20, 2025 refusal, and no hearing date has been set.
