By Gwurld4026 
Lagos Airport Arrest: $578,000 Suspect Faints in Court
On March 26, 2025, Okorie Sunday, a businessman arrested at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos with $578,000 in cash, collapsed during his trial at the Federal High Court in Lagos. The incident occurred as the court registrar was about to re-read the charges following Okorie’s decision to change his plea from not guilty to guilty on two counts.
Background of the Case:
- Arrest Details: Okorie was apprehended on March 19, 2025, upon arrival from Johannesburg, South Africa. At the airport’s currency declaration desk, he declared $279,000. However, a subsequent search revealed an additional $299,000 concealed in various packages, totaling $578,000. Authorities also discovered €100 and a counterfeit $250 note among the undeclared cash.
- Charges: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged Okorie with four counts related to alleged money laundering and currency offenses. He initially pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on March 25, 2025.
Court Proceedings:
- Plea Change: During the court session on March 26, Okorie’s counsel, Uche Okoronkwo, informed the court of his client’s intention to change his plea to guilty on counts one and two. The EFCC’s counsel, Chineye Okezie, confirmed this development and requested the withdrawal of counts three and four, which the court approved.
- Collapse Incident: As the registrar began to re-read the charges, Okorie collapsed in the dock. His wife and daughter, present in the courtroom, reacted emotionally. He was promptly taken to the hospital, and the court proceedings were temporarily halted.
Legal Implications:
The charges against Okorie involve violations of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Counterfeit Currency (Special Provisions) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. These laws mandate the declaration of sums exceeding $10,000 upon entry or exit from the country and prohibit the possession of counterfeit currency.
Next Steps:
The court has adjourned the proceedings pending Okorie’s medical evaluation and recovery. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.