Justice Efe Ikponwonba of Edo state High Court sitting in Benin City, has dismissed charges of corruption against a former Chairman, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in the state, Dr. Emmanuel Ighodaro, and two others who were executive members between 2013 and 2014.
The Economic Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) had arraigned the defendants in January 2018 over alleged conspiracy to commit felony and stealing of about N21.7 million belonging to the association.
The anti-graft agency said the offence was punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code CAP 48 Laws of Bendel State of Nigeria as applicable to Edo state.
The court had earlier ruled in May 2018 whereby Dr Quincy Atohengbe and Dr Raymond Ogieva were discharged.
Counsels to Defendants, Imadugbelo Ighodalo (SAN) and K. O. Obamogie prayed the court to dismiss the charges and acquit the defendants, an application that Counsel to EFCC, S.I. Ibekute vehemently opposed.
