A social media influencer and comedienne, Adedamola Adewale alias Adeherself, has been rearraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over alleged N7.9 million internet fraud.
It was learnt that the comedienne was charged on Wednesday alongside two others at large, on a three-count of conspiracy to obtain money by false pretences, attempt to obtain money by false pretences and retention of proceeds of criminal conduct.
After the defendant pleaded not guilty, the counsel to EFCC, Mr Samuel Daji, prayed the court to remand Adeherself pending commencement of trial.
Daji informed the court that the case was re-assigned and there was the need for proper bail application by the defence.
He said, “My lord, this case was heard before Justice Sherifat Solebo before she retired, and when it was transferred to this honourable court, I informed my learned friend that the case would be coming up on Jan. 25.
“He said he thought it was the day before.
READ ALSO: Kano Police Arrest ‘Journalists’ For Faking Bank Transfer
“This is a matter that is starting afresh before your lordship, and we do not know if the sureties, who stood for her earlier, are dead or not.
“It is proper for defence to apply afresh for bail before your lordship.”
However, the defence counsel, Mr Kassim Molade, urged the court to uphold the bail granted by the retired judge pending filing of a new bail application.
He argued that Adeherself had always presented herself in court and she is available for trial.
“We passionately urge your lordship to allow the defendant to continue to enjoy the bail given to her by the sister court.
“The reason we were not here on Jan. 25 is that prosecution did not get back to me.
“I assure your lordship that before the close of today, I will rush to the sister court to get a copy of the ruling on the bail application,” he said.
Justice Mojisola Dada consequently retained the bail granted to the defendant by Solebo pending the filing of a new bail application by the defence counsel.
The judge said the defendant would be remanded if she fails to present her bank statement of account within the next three weeks.