The Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja has arraigned Ufoma Immanuel, Chief Executive Officer of Chappal Energies, on charges of alleged conspiracy, theft and dishonest conversion involving a Lexus vehicle valued at approximately ₦600 million.
Justice Rahman Oshodi proceeded with the arraignment despite an attempt by defence counsel to have the court first determine a preliminary objection challenging its jurisdiction.
The Police Special Fraud Unit alleges that Immanuel conspired with persons said to be at large to steal a Lexus LA 600F SUV belonging to Chappal Energies Offshore Limited and subsequently converted the vehicle to his personal use. The alleged offences were said to have occurred in January 2026 while Immanuel was a suspended director of the company.
Immanuel pleaded not guilty.
His defence team argues that the prosecution arises from a wider dispute over the ownership, control and management of Chappal Energies and contends that the criminal process is being used to gain leverage in an underlying corporate disagreement.
The defence also questioned whether the evidence disclosed facts sufficient to establish conspiracy or stealing.
Justice Oshodi, however, held that the jurisdictional objection should not prevent the defendant from taking his plea, relying on the Lagos State Administration of Criminal Justice framework.
The judge also expressed concern that further delaying the arraignment could result in Immanuel remaining indefinitely in custody without formally responding to the charges.
He was subsequently remanded, while the matter was adjourned to October 2, 2026.
The preliminary objection has not yet been finally determined, while the allegations against Immanuel remain unproven.
READ MORE: Court Drama as Lagos Judge Rejects Application to Halt N1.35bn Fraud Trial
SOURCE: TheNigeriaLawyer
