Abuja Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has arraigned Blessing Gozi-Anyaokei, managing director, Viscount Microfinance Bank, over allegations of unlawful conversion of investment funds amounting to N19 million and $30,000.
Gozi-Anyaokei was brought before Justice Y. Halilu of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, on a two-count charge bordering on alleged illegal conversion and obtaining money under false pretence.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson, the defendant allegedly received N19 million from one Ernest Terkula Jor in 2022 for investment purposes while serving as the Managing Director of the bank.
The anti-graft agency accused her of diverting the funds for personal use, contrary to the provisions of the Penal Code Act.
In the second charge, the EFCC alleged that she also received $30,000 from the same individual for investment purposes but dishonestly converted the money for her personal benefit.
The commission stated that the alleged offences contravene Section 311 of the Penal Code Act Cap 532, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990, and are punishable under Section 312 of the same Act.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read before the court.
Following her plea, prosecution counsel, S.N. Robert, requested a date for the commencement of trial.
Justice Halilu subsequently granted the defendant bail with two sureties who must possess landed property within Abuja.
The court also ordered her to surrender her travel documents and barred her from travelling outside the country without court approval.
The matter was adjourned until July 19, 2026, for commencement of trial.
