A Lagos State High Court in Ikeja has sentenced businesswoman Oluremi Phillips to 17 years imprisonment for fraud involving N57,690,000. Justice I.O. Ijelu delivered the ruling on December 12, 2024, convicting Phillips and her company, Omritas Energy Limited, on five charges of theft and issuing dud cheques.
Background of the Case
The defendant, initially arraigned on January 27, 2022, before Justice S.O. Solebo, faced delays when Justice Solebo retired in November 2022, leading to the case being reassigned. On May 22, 2023, Phillips and Omritas Energy Limited were re-arraigned before Justice Ijelu.
Key Charges Include:
- Fraudulently converting N57.69 million belonging to AYM Shafa Limited intended for the supply of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in 2016.
- Issuing a dishonored cheque worth N14.29 million on April 10, 2017, without sufficient funds in the account.
Despite pleading not guilty to all charges, the prosecution presented compelling evidence, including witness testimonies and documents.
Verdict and Sentencing
Justice Ijelu ruled that the prosecution proved the case beyond reasonable doubt and convicted the defendants:
- Oluremi Phillips: 9 years imprisonment for theft (count one) with an alternative fine of N2 million, payable within 90 days. She also received 2 years each for counts two to five. The sentences will run concurrently.
- Omritas Energy Limited: Fined N250,000 for count one and N100,000 each for counts two to five.
Restitution and Company Shutdown
The court ordered the restitution of N57,690,000 to the victim, AYM Shafa Limited, within 90 days. If the company fails to fulfill this order, it will be wound up.
The ruling highlights the consequences of fraudulent practices and the justice system’s commitment to protecting victims of financial crimes.
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