Justice Ibrahim Buba of the Federal High Court in Lagos will today decide whether or not he can hear the charge of illegal oil bunkering brought against 14 foreigners and three companies by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Justice Buba fixed today for ruling after listening to an application brought by the foreigners challenging the jurisdiction of the court to try them on the alleged economic crime.
The accused persons include three Russians, Arthur Pakhladzhian, Vasaliy Shkundich, Kretov Andrey, one Japanese, Sergio Abgarian, three Ukrainian,Vitalis Biluos, Laguta Olesksiy, Chepikov Oleksan.
Others are: seven British citizens, Hilarion Teofilo Regipor JR, Cadavis Gerardo, Baduria Benjamin, Naranjo Allian Antero JR.
Others include: Patro Christian, Alcayde Joel, Carantiquit Micheal Bryan and three vessels namely: MT Anukt Emerald, Monjasa DMCC, and Glencore Energy UK Ltd.
They were arraigned before the court last week Wednesday by the EFCC on a 4-count charge bordering on conspiracy and illegal dealing in petroleum products.
At the resumed hearing of the matter yesterday, lawyer to the accused persons, Babajide Koku (SAN) told the court that it lacks the jurisdiction to entertain the matter because the case is not at the instance of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and that the AGF’s consent was not sought and obtained prior to the filing of the charge.
Oil Bunkering: Judge Decides Jurisdiction On Foreigners’ Case Today
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