EX-JAMB REGISTRAR DIBU OJERINDE, ICPC AGREE TO OUT-OF-COURT SETTLEMENT IN N5.2BN FRAUD CASE

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned proceedings in the N5.2 billion corruption trial of former Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Dibu Ojerinde, following an agreement by parties to explore an out-of-court settlement.

At Monday’s sitting, Ojerinde’s lawyer, Eteya Ogana, informed Justice Obiora Egwuatu that both the defence and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) were in discussions to settle the matter administratively.

“Given this development, we shall be asking for a long date after the vacation to enable us to report same,” Ogana told the court.

ICPC’s counsel, Lesie Iheduru, confirmed the reconciliation talks, prompting Justice Egwuatu to adjourn the matter to October 20, 2025, for a report on the settlement or commencement of defence.

Ojerinde was first arraigned in July 2021 on an 18-count charge bordering on alleged fraud and abuse of office during his tenure as head of JAMB and the National Examinations Council (NECO). He pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The ICPC alleged that the former registrar diverted government funds amounting to N5.2 billion for personal gain. The charges include violations of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, and the Advance Fee Fraud Act, 2006.

In June 2024, the court dismissed a no-case submission filed by Ojerinde, ruling that the prosecution had established a prima facie case warranting a defence.

This marks the second attempt at a plea bargain by Ojerinde, following a failed effort in February 2022.

The outcome of the current settlement talks will determine whether the case proceeds to full trial or is resolved administratively.