…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media. One Temidayo Eseyin, an associate pastor with the Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), has been arraigned before Justice Funsho Lawal of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin.
The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged Eseyin with four counts related to the alleged misappropriation of funds belonging to Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, amounting to N19.3 million.
Access to Funds and Alleged Misconduct
As a counsel/attorney to Landmark University, Eseyin had access to the university’s properties, title documents, and funds.
The EFCC claimed that Eseyin, who is also a lawyer and former member of the Disciplinary Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ilorin Branch, allegedly cheated, defrauded, misappropriated, and shortchanged his client.
Allegations of Property Mismanagement
One specific allegation involved Eseyin’s management of the property known as “Old Midland Building” between 2014 and 2022.
The building, owned by Landmark University and located along Emir’s/Obbo Road, Ilorin, generated rental income.
However, Eseyin was unable to account for the rents collected over the eight-year period when questioned.
Furthermore, it was alleged that Eseyin attempted to sell the property without authorization from the university, leading to the petition filed with the EFCC.
Charges and Plea
Among the charges brought against Eseyin, count three accused him of dishonestly misappropriating the sum of N6,064,000, representing rent payment for the Old Midland Building.
This offense is said to contravene Section 308 of the Penal Code Law and is punishable under Section 309 of the same law.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Bail and Remand
Following Eseyin’s plea, counsel to the EFCC requested a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendant in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Centre pending trial.
Eseyin’s lawyer, on the other hand, sought bail for his client.
Justice Lawal granted bail to the defendant in the sum of N10 million, requiring two sureties with landed property within the jurisdiction of the court.
The judge adjourned the case to a later date to be communicated and ordered that Eseyin be remanded in EFCC custody until his bail conditions are met.