The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Thursday introduced its 15th witness in the ongoing trial of former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, over charges of money laundering.
The witness, Mr. Joseph Machleb, who is not proficient in English, was questioned by the EFCC’s lead prosecutor, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN).
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Machleb, a resident of Akure and a mechanic for Samchase Nigeria Ltd., testified that he co-founded JJ Technical Services Ltd. with his elder brother, but handed over the company’s operations to a man named Azeez Michelle to seek contracts.
He stated that he had no knowledge of the company’s involvement in property transactions.
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Under cross-examination by the defense counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), Machleb admitted to authorizing Michelle to handle certain transactions on behalf of the company, following the presentation of a signed document dated November 20, 2013, which was accepted as evidence (Exhibit A20).
Despite this, the witness claimed he was unaware of Michelle executing any transactions for the company.
The defense further questioned Machleb about his knowledge of Fayose, to which he responded that he had only seen him on television and had no business dealings with him or his administration.
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Machleb also denied having any interaction with one Biodun Agbele, who is implicated in the case.
Fayose is facing charges of alleged N6.9 billion fraud and money laundering, which include accusations of receiving N1.2 billion to fund his 2014 gubernatorial campaign, receiving $5 million from former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, and using proceeds of crime to acquire properties in Lagos and Abuja.
He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was initially granted bail in 2018.
The case, which is now before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, will continue on October 18, 2024.
