Businessman Collapses in Court Amid $299,000 Money Laundering Trial

Okorie was facing charges related to money laundering and the importation of counterfeit currency. According to the EFCC, he attempted to smuggle $299,000 and fake foreign currency—$250 in counterfeit U.S. notes and €100—concealed inside relaxer containers through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, on March 19, 2025.

Lagos, Nigeria – A businessman, Sunday Okorie, lost consciousness in a Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday while standing in the dock.

Okorie had been arraigned the previous day on allegations of failing to declare $299,000 and being in possession of counterfeit currency. He initially pleaded not guilty, prompting Justice Deinde Dipeolu to order his remand and adjourn the trial to Wednesday.

However, at the resumed hearing, Okorie’s lawyer, Uche Okoronkwo, informed the court that his client wished to change his plea to guilty. The prosecution, represented by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) lawyer Chineye Okezie, acknowledged the request and announced the withdrawal of two charges, leaving only counts one and two.

Justice Dipeolu approved the amendment and directed the court registrar to reread the charges to Okorie. As the registrar prepared to proceed, he asked the defendant if he understood English. Okorie did not respond and suddenly collapsed in the dock.

His wife, visibly distressed, fell to her knees, crying out for divine intervention.

Okorie was facing charges related to money laundering and the importation of counterfeit currency. According to the EFCC, he attempted to smuggle $299,000 and fake foreign currency—$250 in counterfeit U.S. notes and €100—concealed inside relaxer containers through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, on March 19, 2025.

The prosecution stated that Okorie knowingly possessed five counterfeit $50 notes, with serial numbers MB67951730 D, MB93612802 A, MB67957416 D, MB67957308 D, and MB121997428 C. His actions were said to be in violation of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Counterfeit Currency (Special Provisions) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.