Alleged $1.043m Fraud: Ajudua’s Absence Stalls Trial

The trial of alleged serial fraudster, Fred Ajudua, before Justice M.A. Dada of the Special Offences Court, Ikeja, was on Friday, November 28, 2025, stalled following his absence in court.

At the proceedings, Ajudua’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), informed the court that the defendant—currently in custody—was not produced by officials of the Nigeria Correctional Service. The court also acknowledged receiving a letter from the Service explaining the failure to present him.

Prosecuting counsel, S.K. Atteh, said he was unaware of the letter until it surfaced in court. Ojo (SAN) further noted that the Correctional Service did not specify when Ajudua would be brought before the court, prompting a request for a new trial date in the new year.

Justice Dada subsequently adjourned the matter to Thursday, January 19, 2026, for continuation of trial.

Ajudua is facing prosecution for allegedly obtaining $1,043,000 from one Abu Zalaf under false pretences. The case, which commenced in 2005 before Justice M.O. Obadina, has suffered repeated delays, reportedly linked to various legal manoeuvres attributed to the defendant.