Dr. Geraldine Orok Ita’s Conviction: A Case of Forgery, Fraud, and Misappropriation
Dr. Geraldine Orok Ita, a medical doctor, has been found guilty of a N127 million fraud and sentenced to seven years imprisonment by Justice Rosemary Oghogho-rie of the Federal High Court in Calabar, Cross River State. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) successfully prosecuted Ita on a 12-count charge, including forgery and diversion of funds. This case highlights the severity of financial crimes and the commitment of law enforcement agencies to hold perpetrators accountable.
The charges against Dr. Ita stemmed from a petition filed in 2019 by Sharpnet Concept Limited and ROK Project Limited, initiated by two of the companies’ directors. The petition alleged that Dr. Ita forged and fraudulently altered company documents, effectively removing the original directors from company records. Dr. Ita then falsely claimed to be the second wife of the deceased Engr. Orok Okonkon Ita, who had passed away in 2004. This act of deception was a crucial element in her scheme to gain control of the companies and their assets.
The fraudulent alterations included appointing a new company secretary, changing the registered address of the companies, and manipulating share allotments and returns. These actions demonstrate a calculated effort to seize control of the companies and their financial resources. By removing the legitimate directors and appointing herself in a position of authority, Dr. Ita gained access to the companies’ funds, which she then diverted for personal gain.
One specific charge detailed how Dr. Ita forged FORM CAC 10, the Annual Return for a Small Company, for Sharpnet Concept Limited. She falsified the signature of Mrs. Rose Orok Ita, a director in the company, with the intent to deceive and legitimize her fraudulent activities. This forgery allowed her to present a false image of the company’s status and operations, further solidifying her control. The act of forging an official document like FORM CAC 10 demonstrates a deliberate attempt to circumvent legal processes and deceive regulatory bodies.
Another charge outlined how Dr. Ita took possession of N45 million through a bank account belonging to Rok Projects Limited. This money was paid by the University of Calabar (UNICAL) for a project executed by ROK Projects Limited/Sharpnet Limited. The prosecution argued that Dr. Ita knew the money was derived from her fraudulent activities, making her guilty of money laundering. This charge highlights the link between the initial forgery and the subsequent financial gains, illustrating a pattern of criminal activity.
Throughout the trial, which commenced in 2019, Dr. Ita pleaded not guilty to all charges. However, the prosecution, led by Joshua Abolarin, presented compelling evidence and witness testimonies that ultimately convinced the court of her guilt. Justice Oghogho-rie’s verdict and sentencing send a clear message that such fraudulent activities will not be tolerated and will be met with appropriate legal consequences.
This case underscores the importance of corporate governance and the need for robust internal controls to prevent fraudulent activities. It also highlights the critical role of whistleblowers in exposing financial misconduct. The directors who initiated the petition played a vital role in bringing Dr. Ita’s actions to light, enabling the EFCC to investigate and prosecute the case. Their actions demonstrate the importance of speaking up against wrongdoing, even when it involves individuals in positions of authority.
The seven-year prison sentence imposed on Dr. Ita serves as a deterrent to others who might contemplate engaging in similar fraudulent activities. It emphasizes that financial crimes carry significant penalties and that perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions. This case reinforces the message that integrity and ethical behaviour are crucial in all financial dealings, regardless of professional status or position. The outcome also serves as a reminder of the important role that law enforcement agencies like the EFCC play in upholding financial integrity and protecting the public from financial crimes.
