Dr. Henry Akinduro, the Chief Executive Officer of Global Signature Hotel and Total Grace Group Limited, has filed a N5 billion lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The suit was lodged at the Federal High Court on Wednesday, October 19, 2024.
Akinduro alleges that the EFCC declared him wanted without proper judicial procedure or any court order.
His legal team, led by Barrister Olakekan Ojo (SAN), argues that this declaration is a violation of his fundamental human rights.
“The EFCC acted unlawfully and without justification,” Ojo stated during a press briefing.
The lawsuit comes in response to fraud allegations made against Akinduro, which his team describes as unfounded and ill-motivated.
The legal documents indicate that the issue arises from a contractual disagreement with a business partner, Olushakin.
According to the suit, both parties are already involved in a civil lawsuit (Suit No: I/875/2024) regarding their investment agreement.
“This is a clear case of an attempt to criminalize a civil matter,” Ojo explained.
He further emphasized that Akinduro has sought to resolve the dispute through legal means, not through any fraudulent activities.
In the civil lawsuit, Akinduro is seeking a declaration that the relationship with Olushakin is contractual and civil, not criminal.
The suit states, “The continuous threat, harassment, and molestation of our client by the defendant is wrongful and unlawful.”
Akinduro’s team insists that he has always communicated responsibly regarding their business dealings.
“Dr. Akinduro has responded through appropriate legal channels,” Ojo said. “He is serious about this investment agreement.”
The legal representatives also expressed concern over the negative impact of the EFCC’s actions on Akinduro’s reputation.
“Our client believes that the online declaration has unjustly harmed his standing in the business community,” they noted.
They insist that the allegations against him are driven by conflicts arising from the investment dealings, rather than any actual fraudulent behavior.
“The fraud claims are baseless and meant to damage his hard-earned reputation,” they added.
Akinduro is determined to clear his name and rectify what he calls malicious allegations.
“Our client is presumed innocent until proven guilty,” Ojo stated firmly.
He urged for a fair legal process to examine the facts without bias.
The EFCC has not yet publicly responded to the lawsuit.
However, Akinduro’s legal team hopes the court will recognize the wrongful nature of the EFCC’s actions.
“Dr. Akinduro is a reputable businessman who deserves fair treatment,” they concluded.
