A Lagos-based businessman, Jerald Uche Lebechi, and his company, Monarch and Co International Limited, have been charged to court over alleged $236,400 fraud.
The 21-count amended charge filed by the Nigeria Police Force before the Federal High Court, Lagos follows a two-page petition dated January 13, 2025, submitted by Barrister Ese P. Okiti Esq. of Columbus Okaro & Co, Lagos.
The petition was filed on behalf of Mr. Venatus Onwughalu.
According to the petition, in August 2021, Jerald Uche Lebechi, allegedly obtained a cumulative sum of $236,400 under the pretext of procuring travel documents to Grenada for Mr. Onwughalu and his family. However, no such documents were provided, nor was the money refunded.
“Instead, when our client demanded a refund, the 1st Defendant/Respondent issued him fifteen (15) Union Bank cheques, each valued at ten million naira (N10,000,000.00), totaling one hundred and fifty million naira (N150,000,000.00). Upon presentation at the bank, all cheques were returned dishonoured due to insufficient funds,” the petition stated.
Following the complaint, police investigations were carried out, and prima facie evidence was established against the defendants. The matter was initially filed under Charge Number: FHC/L/308C/2025, dated March 14, 2025, but was subsequently amended on April 7, 2025.
The trial is set to commence on June 24, 2025, before the presiding judge, Justice Ibrahim Ahmad Kala.