Lagos High Court Overrules UBA’s Attempt to Disqualify Retired Police Prosecutor in $950k Fraud Trial

Justice Dipeolu dismisses UBA's bid to disqualify Emmanuel Jackson from the $950,000 fraud case, ruling the retired police officer can continue as prosecutor.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 11, 2026, 5:50 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from LEADERSHIP News

Legal Challenge to Prosecutorial Authority

A major hurdle in the trial of United Bank for Africa (UBA) and several other defendants has been cleared following a pivotal ruling at the Federal High Court in Lagos. The defendants had filed a motion seeking to disqualify Emmanuel Jackson, a retired Deputy Commissioner of Police, from continuing his role as the lead prosecutor. The defense argued that upon his retirement in April 2025, Jackson lost the statutory authority to represent the Nigeria Police Force in criminal proceedings. However, Justice Deinde Dipeolu dismissed the application, describing it as lacking in merit and affirming Jackson’s standing to continue the case.

Background of the $950,000 Fraud Allegations

The case, which carries the charge mark FHC/AWK/25/2020, involves a complex five-count amended charge including conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretenses, and the issuance of dud checks. UBA is standing trial alongside its former employees, Emeka Njoku and Onyinyechi Oraegbunem. Also charged are Chibueze Ojeh and Obinna Nwosu, executives of Castle Equipment & Logistics Limited, as well as Pamela Onaga. The prosecution alleges that the defendants defrauded businessman Chief Nnamdi Ezenwa, the CEO of Vinna Investment Limited, of $950,000. While most defendants have pleaded not guilty, Oraegbunem and Onaga are reported to be at large.

The "Fiat" and Prosecution Strategy

In their counter-argument, the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) clarified that Jackson's transition from active duty to retirement did not terminate his legal relationship with the force. Sunday Ubani, representing the PSFU, submitted evidence that the Commissioner of Police had issued a formal letter of authorization, or "fiat," appointing Jackson as a legal consultant and prosecutor. The police argued that Jackson possesses institutional memory of the case, which began in 2020, and that his continued involvement is essential to the interests of justice. Justice Dipeolu upheld this view, noting that the police have the discretion to appoint counsel to represent their interests.