Microfinance bank manager arraigned over N3.7m theft

naira money cash

A branch manager of Asha Microfinance Bank, Lateef Ewedina, has been arraigned in a Yaba Magistrates’ Court in Lagos.

The 39-year-old, a resident of Ipaja area of Lagos, was arraigned on Friday on a charge of stealing from his employer.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Police prosecutor, Godwin Oriabure, told the court that the defendant committed the offence between September 2018 and March 2019 at Asha Microfinance Bank, Simpson Street, Ebute-Meta, Lagos.

Mr Oriabure said an audit on the bank’s accounts revealed that the defendant made fraudulent cash withdrawals and unauthorised cash disbursements of depositors’ funds.

He said the offence contravened Section 287 (7) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015 (Revised).

The manager could face up to seven years in prison if convicted.

Chief Magistrate Oluwatoyin Ojuromi granted him bail in the sum of N1 million with two sureties in like sum.

Ojuromi also ruled that both sureties must be above 40 years’ old and be gainfully employed with an evidence of three years’ tax payment to Lagos State Government.

The case was adjourned until May 14 for mention.