More Trouble for Fayose as 15th Witness Testifies in N6.9 Billion Fraud Trial

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has introduced its 15th witness, Joseph Machleb, in the ongoing N6.9 billion fraud and money laundering trial of former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose. The trial, held in Lagos, is centered on allegations of financial misconduct during Fayose’s tenure as governor.

Machleb, who works as a mechanic for Samchase Nigeria Ltd., a construction company, was examined by the prosecution, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Rotimi Jacobs. During his testimony, Machleb disclosed that he resides in Akure, Ondo State, and that he co-founded a company, JJ Technical Services Ltd., alongside his brother. The company, however, was later handed over to one Azeez Michelle, who was tasked with soliciting contracts on its behalf.

When asked whether the company was involved in property purchases, Machleb stated he was unaware of such activities. He emphasized that his instructions to Michelle were strictly limited to seeking contracts for the company.

Under cross-examination by the defense counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), Machleb confirmed that he did not authorize Michelle to engage in property transactions for the company. When presented with a document dated November 20, 2013, to refresh his memory, Machleb identified his signature and acknowledged signing the document. This document, which authorized Michelle to sign and execute contracts on behalf of JJ Technical Services Ltd., was admitted into evidence as Exhibit A20.

Ojo further questioned Machleb about the extent of Michelle’s authority to act on behalf of the company. While the witness admitted to authorizing Michelle to handle company matters, he expressed no knowledge of specific transactions carried out under Michelle’s purview. Machleb also confirmed that neither he nor the company had taken any steps to inquire about documents related to the alleged transactions.

During the trial, Machleb acknowledged seeing Fayose on television and confirmed knowing him as the former governor of Ekiti State. However, he clarified that neither he nor his company had any dealings with Fayose during his time in office. He also denied having any connection to Biodun Agbele, another individual implicated in the case, and confirmed that the EFCC had shown him only one agreement document related to the investigation.

The defense counsel sought to establish that Machleb’s company, JJ Technical Services Ltd., had no business dealings with Fayose or any other parties mentioned in the case. Machleb reiterated that Michelle had been entrusted to act on behalf of the company, based on confidence and trust, and that there had been no reason to doubt Michelle’s integrity.

The trial was adjourned until October 18, 2024, for further proceedings.

Fayose, who faces charges of fraud and money laundering amounting to N6.9 billion, was initially arraigned by the EFCC on October 22, 2018, and pleaded not guilty. After a judicial transfer, he was re-arraigned on July 2, 2019, and again pleaded not guilty. The EFCC’s case includes allegations that Fayose and Abiodun Agbele received N1.2 billion in 2014 to fund Fayose’s gubernatorial election campaign, which forms part of the wider fraud case. The EFCC has so far presented multiple witnesses in the ongoing trial.

The trial continues as the court assesses the evidence presented by the EFCC in support of its case against Fayose.