Dibu Ojerinde, former registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has informed the Federal High Court in Abuja of his intention to pursue an out-of-court settlement in his ongoing trial over an alleged N5.2 billion fraud.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) is prosecuting Ojerinde on an 18-count charge relating to the alleged fraud.

In his ruling on Ojerinde’s no-case submission, presiding judge Obiora Egwuatu held that the ICPC had presented sufficient evidence through its witnesses to establish a prima facie case, requiring the defendant to open his defence.

At Wednesday’s hearing, Eteya Ogana, counsel to Ojerinde, informed the court that the parties were currently “exploring” the possibility of resolving the matter administratively.

“We shall be asking for a long date after vacation to enable us to report same,” Ogana said.

Lesie Iheduru, counsel to the ICPC, did not oppose the request and confirmed that reconciliation discussions are in progress.

The court subsequently adjourned the case to October 20 for either a report on the proposed settlement or for Ojerinde to open his defence should the talks collapse.

In 2022, an earlier effort by Ojerinde to reach a plea bargain with the ICPC failed.

The commission alleges that Ojerinde committed various acts of fraud while serving as head of both the National Examinations Council (NECO) and JAMB.

He was arraigned in July 2021 on charges including abuse of office and the diversion of public funds totaling N5.2 billion.

Ojerinde has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.