A High Court sitting in Benin City, Edo State, has convicted and sentenced nine individuals for offences related to internet fraud, including obtaining by false pretence, retention of proceeds of crime, and possession of fraudulent documents. The convictions were secured between March 27 and April 11, 2025, before Justice A.N. Erhabor.
The convicted fraudsters are: Desmond Aghanenu, Okolie Bright, Emeka Matthew, Anikwushe Calin, Precious Onyeka Okonkwo, Ojie Victor Emeka, Safety Tamarakuro Austin, Promise Osas Lucky, and Ebi Ferguson. Eight of the convicts were sentenced to two years in prison or a fine of N200,000, while Ebi Ferguson received a stiffer sentence of three years in prison or the same fine amount.
The convicts were arrested during a sting operation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), following intelligence linking them to fraudulent online activities. They all pleaded guilty to a one-count charge related to their involvement in internet fraud.
During the trial, EFCC prosecuting counsels urged the court to impose appropriate sentences based on the defendants' guilty pleas. In their defence, counsels for the accused pleaded for leniency, citing their remorse and willingness to reform.
Justice Erhabor ordered the forfeiture of all items recovered from the convicts, including mobile phones, laptops, and funds traced to their bank accounts, to the Federal Government of Nigeria. Additionally, each convict was required to sign a written undertaking to maintain good behaviour.
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to fighting cybercrime and financial fraud, urging young people to avoid internet fraud and engage in legitimate ventures for a better future.
