The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday commenced the presentation of evidence in the alleged N15.6 billion fraud case against Tunde Ayeni, former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the defunct Skye Bank Plc.

This development occurred as the anti-graft agency called its first prosecution witness before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Apo, Abuja.

Ayeni is standing trial before Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie on an 18-count amended charge. The charges border on alleged criminal breach of trust, misappropriation, and diversion of funds amounting to N15.6 billion.

The former bank chairman was initially arraigned on May 4, 2026, on a 17-count charge. However, he was re-arraigned on June 22, 2026, after the commission amended the charge and filed additional proof of evidence to support its case.

During Monday’s proceedings, the prosecution, led by Abba Muhammed, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), opened its case by calling its first prosecution witness (PW1), Remigus Ugwu.

Ugwu, who introduced himself as a staff member of Zenith Bank, briefly identified himself before the court as the prosecution began leading evidence in the trial. No detailed testimony was taken during the sitting.

Following the proceedings, Justice Onwuegbuzie adjourned the matter until July 16, 2026, for the continuation of the trial. The EFCC alleges that Ayeni committed criminal breach of trust and diverted funds totaling N15.6 billion.