Lagos, Nigeria — October 11, 2025 — Businessman and alleged serial fraudster Fred Ajudua has once again sought bail from the Special Offences Division of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, prompting firm resistance from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Ajudua, who arrived at court on Friday dressed in white traditional attire and using a walking stick, informed the court through his counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), that he had taken steps to withdraw an application previously filed at the Supreme Court, in order to clear the path for the High Court to rule on his pending bail application.
“We decided to withdraw the motion we filed at the Supreme Court to allow this Honourable Court to deliver its ruling on the bail application,” said Ojo.
The defense submitted an affidavit and a copy of the notice of withdrawal to the trial court.
Ojo emphasized that his client is battling chronic kidney disease and severe hypertension, but nevertheless insisted on appearing in person to fulfil his legal obligations. He pleaded with the court to proceed with ruling on the bail plea without further delay.
EFCC Demands Supreme Court Clearance
In a swift rebuttal, EFCC counsel Seidu Atteh urged the court to refrain from making any ruling until the Supreme Court officially confirms the withdrawal of the application.
“The defendant will need to produce the order of the Supreme Court either dismissing or striking out the notice of withdrawal. We urge the trial court to await the decision of the Supreme Court,” Atteh said.
Justice Mojisola Dada, presiding over the matter, agreed with the EFCC’s position. She stressed the importance of maintaining procedural integrity and ensuring that the withdrawal process at the Supreme Court is formally concluded and documented.
“This court, being a court of record, must be satisfied that the notice of withdrawal is before the Supreme Court, and the same must be considered with the outcome filed in this court,” the judge ruled.
Background
Fred Ajudua, once known for high-profile legal battles, is standing trial over an alleged $1.43 million fraud. The EFCC has accused him of defrauding a German businessman under the guise of facilitating legal services and other dubious claims.
The case has witnessed a prolonged legal back-and-forth, including repeated bail applications and appeals to higher courts, with Ajudua citing severe health conditions as grounds for his requests.
The matter has now been adjourned pending further clarity from the Supreme Court.
