The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Obinna Nwaobi, former Head of Operations at Access Bank’s Enugu branch, before Justice F. O. Giwa-Ogunbanjo of the Federal High Court in Enugu. He is accused of fraudulently authorising the transfer of $510,000 from a customer’s account without consent.
One of the charges alleges that Nwaobi induced Access Bank to transfer the funds from Lantern Gate Nigeria Limited’s account under false pretence—a violation of the Advance Fee Fraud Act. He pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Nwaobi’s lawyer applied for bail, but the EFCC opposed it, arguing that the strength of their evidence might prompt him to flee. After hearing both sides, the court granted him bail of ₦250 million with three sureties, including two property owners in Enugu and a relative who must present three years of tax records. Nwaobi must also submit his international passport, NIN, and passport photographs.
The judge adjourned the case to March 10–12, 2026, for trial and ordered his remand at the Enugu Correctional Service pending fulfilment of his bail conditions.
The case began after Access Bank petitioned the EFCC on September 11, 2024, reporting unauthorised transfers allegedly carried out by Nwaobi.
