EFCC arraigns entertainment CEO over alleged N16.8m dud cheque

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought charges against Ifeanyichukwu Ogbu, the Chief Executive Officer of Ski Hi-Entertainment, accusing him of fraud involving dud cheques totaling N16.8 million. Ogbu was arraigned before the Enugu State High Court on three counts before Justice Vincent Ezeugwu.

The charges detail Ogbu's alleged intent to defraud by issuing Zenith Bank Plc cheques that were dishonored upon presentation due to insufficient funds. One specific charge cited involved a cheque for N5,530,000 issued on August 9, 2024. The EFCC stated that Ogbu pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The anti-graft agency requested a trial date and that the defendant be remanded in custody. However, the defense counsel made an oral bail application. The court has adjourned the matter to July 16, 2026, for a hearing on the bail application, with Ogbu released to his counsel for appearance on the adjourned date.

According to the EFCC, Ogbu's arrest followed a petition from the Sales/Front Office Manager of Ski Hi-Entertainment. The petition alleged that Ogbu made hotel reservations for three Nigeria Premier Football League clubs, incurring a total bill of N17,424,600. He allegedly paid N1 million and issued three cheques for the remaining balance, all of which were dishonored.

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That you, Ifeanyichukwu Ogbu, trading under name and style of Ski Hi-Entertainment, on or about the 9th day of August, 2024 in Enugu, Enugu State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, issued a Zenith Bank Plc cheque… in the sum of Five Million, Five Hundred and Thirty Thousand Naira (N5,530,000.00) which upon presentation for payment within three months of issuance was dishonoured on the ground of insufficient funds in the account on which the cheque was drawn.