By Ayomde Otitoju
Former Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Dibu Ojerinde, and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have agreed to explore an out-of-court settlement in the ₦5.2 billion corruption case pending before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The development was disclosed on Thursday by Ojerinde’s counsel, Eteya Ogana, during a court session presided over by Justice Obiora Egwuatu. Ogana informed the court that the parties had commenced discussions aimed at resolving the matter administratively.
“Although the matter was set for the defence to open its case today, we are exploring the possibility of an amicable resolution. We therefore seek a long adjournment after the vacation period to report progress,” Ogana stated.
Counsel to the ICPC, Lesie Iheduru, confirmed the reconciliation efforts and did not oppose the request for adjournment.
Consequently, Justice Egwuatu adjourned proceedings to October 20 for a report on settlement or continuation of the defence.
Ojerinde was arraigned in July 2021 on an 18-count charge bordering on corruption, abuse of office, and fraudulent diversion of public funds during his tenure at JAMB and the National Examinations Council (NECO).
The former registrar had previously opted for a plea bargain in February 2022, but talks collapsed before a final agreement could be reached.
Following the presentation of prosecution witnesses and the close of its case, Ojerinde filed a no-case submission, claiming the ICPC failed to establish a prima facie case. However, on June 10, Justice Egwuatu dismissed the application and ordered the defendant to open his defence.
The ICPC alleges that Ojerinde fraudulently diverted ₦5.2 billion in public funds for personal enrichment while serving as the head of JAMB and NECO. The commission contends that he violated several provisions of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, as well as the Advance Fee Fraud Act, 2006.
According to documents submitted by ICPC counsel Ebenezer Shogunle, Ojerinde is accused of awarding contracts to companies linked to him, operating multiple accounts to launder funds, and conferring undue advantages on himself through abuse of office.
If the ongoing reconciliation fails, the case will proceed to the defence stage in the next court sitting.
