The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has re-arraigned Prof. David Iornem and two organisations, Island Open University Inc. and Commonwealth University Inc., on charges of certificate fraud and money laundering.
Iornem is accused of defrauding Nigerians by offering fraudulent admissions and certificates through the unaccredited institutions.
The trial, which began in 2013, was restarted after Justice A.R. Mohammed’s promotion to the Court of Appeal and is now overseen by Justice P.O. Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare stated that Iornem pleaded not guilty to all 12 charges, including counts of obtaining money under false pretence and racketeering.
Additionally, he entered not-guilty pleas for the co-defendant organisations facing further charges.
The court approved stricter bail conditions, raising the bond from ₦100,000 to ₦20 million and requiring two sureties, one of whom must be a Level 14 civil servant.
During the trial, ICPC investigator Chidi Orji testified about a sting operation that uncovered fraudulent practices.
He revealed that a National Universities Commission (NUC) petition had prompted the investigation, which led to Iornem’s alleged scheme being exposed.
The trial continues as the ICPC seeks to prove its case against the defendants.
