Court to start trial of six persons for aiding suicide

A Federal High Court sitting in Benin City will on March 12, 2024 commence hearing in a case of alleged ‘aiding suicide’ of one Lilian Omokhuale, daughter of Francis Omoruyi, the Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Uyi Technical Company Limited, preferred against six persons in Benin.

The six persons are Jessica Iguodala Oghomwen, Akpes Omorodion, Chukwudi Akpotowho, Joy Noren, Vincent Uhunmwangho and Blessing Jatto. The High Court is presided over by Hon. Justice S. M. Shuaibu.

In suit No. FHC/B/5C/2024 in a case between Inspector General of Police(IGP) and the six persons, they were also accused of money laundering, concealment of source of funds and operating specialized banking without valid licence.

The offences contravened the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, the Criminal Code Act 2004 and the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act 2020.

Recall that 40-year old Lilian Omokhuale on October 7, 2024 allegedly committed suicide in the GRA axis of Benin City, Edo State. The situation prompted the police to commence investigation into the incident. The investigation revealed that the six accused persons were alleged to have aided her suicide and they were consequently held by the police.  All the suspects are to face prosecution in the Federal High Court, sitting in Benin City.