The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned the Managing Director of Bennicle Investment Nigeria Limited, Mahwash Benedict Luka, alongside the company, over allegations of issuing dud cheques worth N20 million.
The defendants were brought before Justice A.A. Fashola of the FCT High Court in Jabi, Abuja on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. They face a two-count charge relating to the issuance of cheques that were allegedly returned unpaid due to insufficient funds.
According to the first count, Luka, in his capacity as Managing Director, allegedly issued an FCMB cheque numbered 0024633617 for N10 million to First Bank Nigeria Plc on November 29, 2023. The second count accuses him of issuing a Sterling Bank cheque numbered 60911474, also for N10 million, to First Bank on August 29, 2016. Both cheques were said to have been dishonoured when presented.Luka entered a not guilty plea on behalf of himself and Bennicle Investment Nigeria Limited.
Counsel for the defendants, I. Ashom, later applied for bail for Luka and asked the court to extend the same to the company, noting that the Managing Director speaks for the firm.Justice Fashola granted bail to both defendants at N10 million each, with one surety who must be of good standing and have a verifiable address. The court adjourned the case to October 22, 2026, for the commencement of trial.
