The Managing Director of Viscount Microfinance Bank, Blessing Gozi-Anyaokei, has been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, over the alleged diversion of N19 million and $30,000 entrusted to her for investment purposes.
Gozi-Anyaokei was docked before Justice Y. Halilu on a two-count charge bordering on illegal conversion and obtaining money by false pretence.
According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the defendant allegedly received N19 million from one Ernest Terkula Jor in 2022 for investment purposes but converted the funds to personal use.
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The anti-graft agency also alleged that she similarly diverted $30,000 entrusted to her by the same complainant for investment.
EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, disclosed in a statement that the offences contravened Sections 311 and 312 of the Penal Code Act Cap 532, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Following her plea, prosecution counsel, S.N. Robert, requested a trial date, while Justice Halilu granted the defendant bail with two sureties who must own landed property within Abuja.
The court also ordered Gozi-Anyaokei to deposit her travel documents and barred her from travelling outside the country without the court’s permission.
The case was adjourned until July 19, 2026, for commencement of trial.
