Hon. Jude Omena Ogbimi, Chairman of Delta Trust Mortgage Bank Ltd, has strongly refuted allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of power, labelling the claims as unfounded and part of a calculated smear campaign aimed at derailing the bank’s ongoing reforms. The allegations, circulated in a sensational report by journalist Fejiro Oliver, accuse Ogbimi of corruption, including the transfer of ₦300 million to a controversial account.
In a detailed statement, Ogbimi described the allegations as “childish, unfounded, and in many instances, outright lies,” asserting that the accusations were designed to tarnish his reputation and divert attention from the positive strides being made at Delta Trust Mortgage Bank under his leadership.
Addressing specific claims, Ogbimi denied any improper actions, including the allegation that he forcefully entered the bank’s vault to conduct a cash count. He explained that his tour of the bank’s branches in Asaba, Warri, and Abuja was part of a board-mandated familiarisation visit aimed at assessing operations. During these inspections, several operational weaknesses were identified, including gaps in accounting practices and internal controls, which are now being addressed.
“The claim that I barged into the vault with political aides to conduct a cash count is an outright falsehood,” Ogbimi stated. “The board’s role is to provide oversight and correct critical gaps within the bank’s operations, not engage in any illegal activity.”
He further dismissed accusations of embezzlement, intimidation, and misuse of power, describing them as “mischievous and misleading.” Ogbimi pointed out the board’s efforts to improve staff welfare, such as installing new air conditioners at the Asaba branch and overseeing renovations at the Warri branch—actions he said were met with appreciation from employees.
“The staff were jubilant and even offered prayers of gratitude for these improvements,” he noted. “There is no toxic environment at Delta Trust Mortgage Bank, contrary to the claims being made.”
Responding to criticisms about the frequency of board meetings, Ogbimi clarified that the board had adhered to Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) guidelines, meeting once a month since its inception. He added that the absence of a functioning board for almost a year prior to his appointment necessitated regular meetings to fast-track urgent reforms.
“It is standard practice, as per CBN regulations, to ensure regular oversight of the bank’s operations, particularly after such a prolonged period without board leadership,” Ogbimi explained.
Regarding contracts, Ogbimi confirmed that the board had only awarded one contract for the renovation of the bank’s headquarters. He dismissed any suggestions of contract inflation or further awards. He also addressed the decision to open an account with Premium Trust Bank, emphasising that the move was based on securing the best interest rates for Delta Trust Mortgage Bank’s funds following a competitive review of offers from multiple banks.
“The decision to work with Premium Trust Bank was made purely in the best interest of Delta Trust Mortgage Bank, not for personal gain,” he asserted.
Ogbimi also rejected accusations of hiring unqualified personnel, explaining that all employment decisions at the bank are based on qualifications and competence, and he had no direct involvement in the recruitment process. He called the claim of a personal relationship with the head of the Abuja branch “wicked and insensitive,” noting that she was hired solely on merit, with 24 years of banking experience.
“The head of the Abuja branch was appointed based on merit,” he clarified. “There is no personal relationship between us, and the bank maintains strict policies against conflicts of interest.”
Concluding his remarks, Ogbimi urged the public to disregard the baseless allegations, reaffirming the board’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He highlighted the bank’s recent achievements, including plans to expand with new branches in Ughelli, Ozoro, Agbor, and Sapele, part of the board’s broader strategy to enhance the bank’s regional presence and financial performance.
“The reforms we are driving have introduced a new level of accountability and transparency at Delta Trust Mortgage Bank,” Ogbimi stated. “We remain committed to transforming the bank into a leading regional financial institution, serving Delta State with the highest level of integrity and professionalism.”