The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibadan Zonal Command, has achieved the conviction and sentencing of 37 Internet fraudsters in Oyo and Ogun states. The convictions were secured in November and December 2023 before different courts in the two states.
The fraudsters were arraigned before Justices Ladiran Akintola, O.A. Olajide, J.O. Adeyemi, Bayo Taiwo, and M.O. Ishola of the Oyo State High Court, Ibadan; Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State; and Justices A.A. Babawale, A.A. Akinyemi, and S.O. Adeniyi of the Ogun State High Court, Abeokuta. They faced one count charge each.
The convicted individuals include Aladelusi Temitope Matthew, Akinade Abimbola Oluwaseun, Gbenga Musbau Adebayo, Olaitan Gbenga Josiah, Adegboyega Toluwalope Owolabi, Giwa Areef Olakunle, Victor Ogundahunsi Damilare, Kelvin Dave Udanyi, Ayeloja Ridwan Oluwatobilola, Adebule Olamide, Olamilekan Gbolahan Adeniji, Agboola Oladimeji Taofeek, Ojo Odegbile Oke, Abdulazeez Ajadi Oludare, Oyewole Korede Tolu, Okeowo Abiodun Sunday, Oladokun Peter Ayomide, Samuel Ayodeji Mayokun, Hamzat Taofeek Opeyemi, Echeta Chidi Oluwambe, Mujeeb Adedeji, Eyinola Ojo Tosin, and Makinde Kehinde Bukola, among others.
The charges ranged from selling hacked Facebook accounts to impersonation and false representation. All the convicts pleaded guilty to the charges. The courts sentenced them to various terms of imprisonment, ranging from one month to six months, as well as community service. The convicts were also ordered to restitute their victims and forfeit recovered items, including seven exotic cars, to the Federal Government of Nigeria. They have begun serving their sentences in Correctional Centres.
The EFCC has been actively pursuing internet-related offences, and these convictions are part of its efforts to curb cybercrime in the country.