In the Kaduna Chief Magistrates’ Court, two sales clerks, Tony Ebuke, aged 27, and Aaron David, aged 30, residents of Ungwan Rimi Kaduna, faced charges of alleged theft amounting to N7.6 million from their employer, Frank Cletus.
The Thursday arraignment marked a significant juncture in the unfolding legal drama surrounding the accusations leveled against the defendants.
The charges brought against Ebuke and David spanned three counts, encompassing conspiracy, stealing, and unlawful conversion.
The Prosecutor, Insp Chidi Leo, presented the court with details of the alleged offense, asserting that the defendants committed the act between September and November in Malali, Kaduna.
According to Leo, the two sales clerks conspired to steal N7.6 million, proceeds from the goods sold for their employer, Frank Cletus.
The prosecutor contended that the funds, accrued through legitimate business transactions, were fraudulently converted for the personal benefit of the defendants, violating sections 411, 217, and 311 of the Penal Code of Kaduna State 2017.
Despite the weight of the charges, both defendants entered a plea of not guilty. Responding to their plea, Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel granted them bail, setting the amount at N500,000 each, with the condition that two sureties provide the same sum as surety.
The stipulations for the sureties included residency in Kaduna State, gainful employment, and the ability to furnish the court with evidence of their means of livelihood.
Additionally, they were required to present proof of a two-year tax payment to the Kaduna State Government.
The legal process is set to continue, with Magistrate Emmanuel adjourning the case until January 16, 2024, for a comprehensive hearing.
This development marks the initial phase of what promises to be a closely monitored legal proceeding, shedding light on the intricacies of the allegations against Tony Ebuke and Aaron David and providing a glimpse into the judicial system’s response to financial improprieties in Kaduna State.
As the accused face the legal ramifications of the charges, the Kaduna Chief Magistrates’ Court becomes the stage for a meticulous examination of the alleged theft, seeking justice and accountability in the realm of workplace conduct.
