More Trouble for Ozekhome as FG Files Fresh 12-Count Charges Over Alleged Forged Passport | READ DETAILS

Fresh legal clouds are gathering around prominent constitutional lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mike Ozekhome, following the filing of new criminal charges by the Federal Government over the alleged use of a forged Nigerian passport in a disputed property matter in the United Kingdom.

The Federal Government on Tuesday lodged a 12-count charge against Ozekhome at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Abuja, marking a dramatic twist in a matter that had previously been struck out.

Court filings indicate that the new charges stem from allegations that Ozekhome used a forged Nigerian passport in connection with proceedings linked to a property dispute in the UK.

The development comes after the same FCT High Court earlier struck out charges filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over the same issue. That earlier prosecution was discontinued after the Attorney-General of the Federation withdrew the charges.

The fresh filing by the Federal Government now reopens the controversy, raising questions about prosecutorial strategy and the evolving legal basis of the case.

Ozekhome, a respected human rights advocate and vocal public commentator, has built a decades-long reputation as one of Nigeria's most outspoken legal minds. His elevation to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria placed him among the elite in the country's legal profession.

Observers note that the filing of new charges suggests the government believes it now possesses additional or refined evidence capable of sustaining prosecution.

Legal analysts say the key issue will revolve around the authenticity of the passport in question, the circumstances under which it was allegedly used, and whether prosecutorial authorities can establish criminal intent beyond reasonable doubt.

Given Ozekhome's long-standing involvement in high-profile political and constitutional matters, the case is expected to attract significant public and legal scrutiny.

Critics argue that repeated charges in similar matters may signal legal persistence by the authorities, while supporters of the prosecution insist that allegations involving forged travel documents must be fully investigated regardless of status.

As of press time, Ozekhome's legal team had not publicly responded to the fresh charges. However, close associates indicate he is prepared to vigorously defend himself in court.

The matter is now before the FCT High Court in Abuja, where arraignment and preliminary proceedings are expected to commence.

If proven, charges related to forged official documents carry significant legal consequences under Nigerian law. However, as with all criminal matters, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

For now, one thing is certain the legal battle is far from over.