Dr. Bisi Onasanya, former Group Managing Director of First Bank, has demanded a fair hearing and condemned the media trial surrounding allegations linked to a controversial loan issued 12 years ago.
Represented by his lawyer, Olumide Fusika, SAN, Onasanya appeared at the Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday, January 20, 2025, to refute the claims and request formal service of the charges and evidence against him.
Onasanya is defending himself alongside three others: former Chairman of First Bank, Chief Oba Otudeko; a former board member of Honeywell, Soji Akintayo; and Anchorage Leisure Ltd. The case revolves around allegations tied to a loan issued during Onasanya’s tenure at First Bank.
During Monday’s hearing, Fusika strongly criticized the media coverage of the case, arguing that his client had not been formally notified of the charges.
“My Lord, it is concerning that my client has been unduly exposed to media trial without being formally served. This is a procedural anomaly that undermines his right to a fair hearing and personal dignity,” Fusika stated.
He expressed surprise at reports in major newspapers linking Onasanya to the loan controversy and criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly allowing such coverage without prior notification to his client.
Rotimi Oyedepo, counsel for the EFCC, denied any involvement in the media reports.
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“My Lord, we disassociate ourselves from any media reports,” Oyedepo said, suggesting that journalists may have obtained the information through other means.
The EFCC sought a bench warrant for the defendants’ arrest through an ex parte motion and requested permission for substituted service, alleging that the defendants had evaded prior attempts at service.
Fusika opposed the EFCC’s motion, arguing that his client had not avoided service. He emphasized Onasanya’s willingness to face the allegations and demanded to be served the charges and proof of evidence in open court.
“This application is unwarranted and speculative. My client has neither avoided service nor absented himself from this matter. The claims of the prosecution are baseless. Since I am here and my client is ready to go ahead with this case, I ask to be served the charge and the proof of evidence here in the court,” Fusika argued.
Presiding Judge, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, dismissed the EFCC’s motion for substituted service, noting that the defendant had agreed to receive the charges in open court. The EFCC complied with the directive, serving Fusika the charge and proof of evidence during the session.
Fusika confirmed receipt of the documents and secured confirmation from the EFCC that the submitted proof of evidence was exhaustive, ensuring no addendums would be introduced.
Justice Aneke adjourned the case to February 13, 2025.
In an earlier statement issued by his Communication Advisor, Michael Osunuyi, Onasanya dismissed the allegations as baseless, describing them as an attempt to tarnish his reputation. The statement emphasized Onasanya’s track record of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to excellence.
As the case unfolds, Onasanya and his legal team remain resolute in their commitment to clearing his name.
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