EFCC Re‑Arraigns Ex‑Skye Bank Chairman Tunde Ayeni Over Alleged ₦15.6bn Diversion
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arraigned former Chairman of the defunct Skye Bank Plc, Tunde Ayeni, over allegations involving the misappropriation and diversion of N15.6 billion.
Ayeni appeared before Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Apo, Abuja, on Monday following the filing of an amended charge by the anti-graft agency.
According to the EFCC, the amended charge now contains 18 counts bordering on alleged criminal breach of trust, diversion of funds, and financial misconduct. The revision followed the submission of additional evidence by the prosecution.
During the court session, prosecution counsel Abba Mohammed (SAN) informed the court that both the amended charge and supplementary proof of evidence had been filed on June 22, 2026. Defence counsel Abdul Mohammed (SAN) confirmed receipt of the documents.
One of the allegations states that Ayeni, while serving as Chairman of Skye Bank’s Board of Directors, authorized the transfer of N510 million from the bank’s suspense account to Capital Field Investment Group Limited in September 2014. The EFCC claims the transaction violated the bank’s operational guidelines and constituted a breach of trust.
The commission further alleged that Ayeni approved another transfer of N600 million from the same account to Harigold Ventures Limited within the same period, describing the transaction as part of the alleged fraudulent activities under investigation.
Ayeni pleaded not guilty to all 18 counts when they were read before the court.
The former bank executive was initially arraigned on May 4, 2026, on a 17-count charge before the EFCC amended the case and added an extra count.
Following his plea, Justice Onwuegbuzie adjourned the matter until July 6, 2026, when the trial is expected to commence.
