Former Bar Association Vice President Charged For Money Laundering, Theft

SAN FRANCISCO, October 14, (THEWILL) - The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it has concluded arrangement to arraign Barrister Blessing Ukiri, the immediate past 1st Vice President of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA on charges bordering on fraud, stealing and money laundering.

Ukiri, who is alleged to have converted a N35m judgement sum paid by the Central Bank of Nigeria to his client, one Samuel Onowighose, to his personal use, will be docked on Monday October 15, 2012 on a 3 count charge before a Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He was alleged to have used part of the money to acquire 150,000 units of First Bank of Nigeria Plc shares and thereby committed an offence punishable under section 14 (!) (a) Of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act.

Ukiri was arrested on Friday October 12, 2012, at his office on 12 Ohaeto Street D/Line, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The arrest followed a court order issued on Thursday October 11, 2012, by Justice U. N. Agomoh of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.