A Magistrates Court in Benin City, Edo State, has convicted Mr. Nuhu Omokide, a franchise owner and manager of a DHL branch in Benin City.
He was found guilty on a five-count charge related to conspiracy to steal, stealing, and unlawful interference with property.
Mr. Omokide, who was arraigned in Charge No. MEG/275c/2023/A was convicted under Sections 412(1)(2), 287(1)(b)(c), and 346 of the Criminal Law of Edo State, 2022.
A parcel containing original academic certificates and sensitive documents went missing under Mr. Omokide’s custody at DHL’s Airport Road Office in Benin City.
The parcel was meant for delivery to the United Kingdom.
The prosecuting counsel Festus Usiobaifo, Esq., Principal State Counsel, argued that managers can be held personally liable for criminal conduct involving the company.
Usiobaifo argued that the defendant, having admitted operational control, responsibility, and close proximity to the parcel, could not hide under the corporate veil of DHL to avoid criminal liability.
He, therefore, urged the court to pierce the corporate veil, asserting that corporate cover must never be allowed to shield criminal misconduct, especially where trust has been wilfully breached.
Chief Magistrate Afe Osamudiamen convicted Mr. Omokide on all five counts.
The court held that company executives and managers are personally accountable for criminal acts in their duties.
