Reports
Plateau groups petition governor over alleged land grabbing by Fulani invaders
Five groups in Plateau State, Emancipation Centre for Crisis Victims in Nigeria (ECCVN) in collaboration with Atakar Development Association (ADA), Berom Educational and Cultural Organization (BECO), Irigwe Development Association (IDA) and Ron Kunlere Development Association (RKDA), have petitioned the state governor, Simon Lalong, over alleged land grabbing by persons believed to be Fulani invaders on native communities.
The petition titled “A petition against land grabbing by Fulani invaders on native communities in parts of Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Bokkos and Riyom LGAs of Plateau State“, was submitted to the Executive Governor of Plateau State at the Government House in Little-Rayfield, Jos, through the Secretary to the State Government on 26th November, 2021.
It was signed by Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, Esq. for ECCVN, Mr. Benjamin Shaweng, Chairman of frontline Communities, Da Gyang Dalyop Dudu, President of BECO, Mr. Robert Ashi, President of IDA, Dr. Markus Avom, President of ADA, and Pharm. Aaron Matawal, the Acting National Coordinator of Ron Development Association.
In the 30-paragraph petition, the groups elaborated how at least 102 communities suffered at the hands of the land grabbers while being denied justice by relevant authorities.
The petition comprehensively included the affected communities annexed by Fulani jihadists in Plateau State, the district, Local Government Area and the time the communities was annexed.
The petitioners prayed, amongst other things, that the natural and traditional rights of the victims of land grab should be respected, guaranteed and enforced under the extant laws of the land.
They also sought for adequate financial compensation be recommended for payment by culprits, occupiers and government to victims for the losses and disruption on account of land grab and annexation of other properties.
See the petition below in full:
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Plateau State of Nigeria has continued to witness increasing cases of attacks by armed Fulani herdsmen since 2001 on hamlets, villages and communities translating into destruction of houses, displacement of persons, illegal occupation of sacked hamlets and villages as well as the denial of access and seizure of farm lands against the provisions of the Land Use Act and, indeed, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended). This is essentially the background for the enactment of the Anti-Land Grabbing Law of Plateau by the Plateau State House of Assembly, and signed into law by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Dr) S. B. Lalong on the 24th day of December, 2020.
1.2 The Plateau State Anti Land Grabbing Law in its form and intent, as far as ECCVN in collaboration with Atakar Development Association-IDA, Berom Educational and Cultural Organization-BECO, Irigwe Development Association-IDA and Ron Kunlere Development Association-RKDA (hereinafter referred to as “the Associations”) are concerned, seek to add credence to the aforementioned legislations that prohibit any person or group of persons from the forcible takeover of land and/or landed property belonging to either a native, citizen, non-citizen or government in Plateau State.
1.3 Presently, the inauguration of a Task Force to deal with the situation in line with the law is being awaited to provide necessary data and information about the scope, locations, and perpetrators of this crime preparatory to further State action and policies that would deliver justice to the victims in all fours.
2.0 GROUNDS
2.1 In the considered view of Emancipation Centre for Crisis Victims in Nigeria-ECCVN and the associations (affected ethnic nationalities), this development is highly welcomed and, indeed, long overdue. It is also a golden opportunity for ECCVN and the associations, on behalf victims of land grab to petition the Plateau State Government on the following grounds:
2.1.1 That all Communities and individuals affected by this crime should have unfettered access to justice as well as the opportunity to state their cases irrespective of either their knowledge or financial capacity to institute a legal action;
2.1.2 While considering the impact of this crime on the victims, all dimensions of such an impact should be duly taken into account for the sake of justice, equity and good conscience; and
2.1.3 The law in its entirety should be pursued and diligently implemented to its full extent in terms of the constitution and inauguration of the “Land Grabbers Task Force” according to Clause 22 and 23 p. 18 & 19 of Anti Land Grabbing Law of Plateau State, 2020.
2.2 In addition to the aforementioned grounds, ECCVN and the aforementioned associations on account of this petition, herewith demand the following from the Plateau State Government:
2.2.1 A clear State action/policy which enjoys adequate appropriation towards securing and the rebuilding of affected hamlets, villages and communities;
2.2.2 Provision of Development Assistance for the purposes of Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Restoration of affected hamlets, villages and communities; and
2.2.3 Provision of a Medium and long-term Stabilization Grants and Projects of between 3-5 years and/or 7-10 years warranting start-offs of livelihoods, employment and skills acquisition upon the return of victims to their ancestral homesteads.
2.3 For the avoidance of doubt, ECCVN and the said associations have provided below a list of hamlets, villages and Communities in the general area of Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Bokkos, and Riyom LGAs which have suffered and are affected by land grab.
2.4 COMMUNITIES ANNEXED BY FULANI (JIHADISTS) IN PLATEAU STATE
S-N / Community / District / LGA / Time annexed
1. Krunkwa Miango Bassa 2015-2017
2. Rotsu Miango Bassa 2015-2017
3. Nzhwego Miango Bassa 2017-2018
4. Jiri Miango Bassa 2017-2018
5. Ri-Meli Miango Bassa 2017-2018
6. Ri-Bakwa Miango Bassa 2017-2018
7. Ri-Nju Miango Bassa 2017-2018
8. Chuvoh Miango Bassa 2017-2018
9. Nkienwhie Miango Bassa 2017-2018
10. Nzwherenvi Miango Bassa 2017-2018
11. Ganda Daffo Bokkos 2018
12. Hotom Wereng Daffo Bokkos 2018
13. Fubok Mandung Daffo Bokkos 2018
14. Fubok Faram Daffo Bokkos 2018
15. Farandong Hai Daffo Bokkos 2018
16. Morok Daffo Bokkos 2018
17. Nghakudung Daffo Bokkos 2018
18. Fangha Daffo Bokkos 2018
19. Shilim Daffo Bokkos 2018
20. Rotchun (Renamed Rafin Acha) Riyom Riyom 10/9/2001
21. Rankum village (renamed Mahanga) Riyom Riyom 10/9/2001
22. Darin Riyom Riyom 28/4/2013
23. Hywa (renamed”Lugere”) Riyom Riyom 10/9/2001
24. Fass(renamed”Tafawa”) Riyom Riyom 10/9/2001
25. Janda Riyom Riyom 8/2/2010
26. Shong I Bachi Riyom 29/6/2012
27. Shong II Bachi Riyom 29/6/2012
28. Rakweng village Bachi Riyom 29/6/2012
29. Dashugu village Bachi Riyom 29/6/2012
30. Diyan-Hei village Bachi Riyom 29/6/2012
31. Shonong Bachi Riyom 26/12/2014
32. Maseh (renamed “Lugel”) Bachi Riyom 7/7/2012
33. Kampwas, Shonong village Bachi Riyom 7/7/2012
34. Kasa of Shonong Bachi Riyom 7/7/2012
35. Palang Bachi Riyom 23//6/2018
36. Nanja-Hei of Shonong Bachi Riyom 23/6/2018
37. Kuk of Shonong Bachi Riyom 23/6/2018
38. Zere of Shonong Bachi Riyom 23/6/2018
39. Nzong of Shonong Bachi Riyom 23/6/2018
40. Ret-Nzere, Tahoss Riyom Riyom 7/7/2012
41. Ninja-Hei, Sopp Bachi Riyom 7/7/2012
42. Seh of Shonong Bachi Riyom 7/7/2012
43. Rahol of Tahoss Riyom Riyom 7/7/2012
44. Ranchol of Sopp Bachi Riyom 7/10/2013 & 30/8/2015
45. Davwak Jol Riyom Riyom 10/9/2001
46. Nangam of Sopp Bachi Riyom 30/4/2014
47. Kak of Sopp Bachi Riyom 30/4/2014
48. Dajak of Sopp Bachi Riyom 30/4/2014
49. Attakar Ganawuri Riyom 14/3/2014
50. Nantwa Tahoss Riyom Riyom 7/7/2012
51. Nicha of Sopp Bachi Riyom 7/7/2012
52. Wull of Sopp Bachi Riyom 30/8/2015
53. Chicham of Atakar Ganawuri Riyom 8/2/ 2014.
54. Kirim of Atakar Ganawuri Riyom 8/2/2014
55. Ucham of Atakar Ganawuri Riyom 8/2/2014
56. Bassat of Atakar Ganawuri Riyom 8/2/2014
57. Mayit of Atakar Ganawuri Riyom 8/2/2014
58. Tingamagwe of Atakar Ganawuri Riyom 8/2/2014
59. Zadiyen of Atakar Ganawuri Riyom 8/2/2014
60. Bubwat of Atakar Ganawuri Riyom 8/2/2014
61. Lyoho of Jol Riyom Riyom 10/9/2001
62. Dakar of Jol Riyom Riyom 10/9/2001
63. Darel Jol Riyom Riyom 2001
64. Rachos of Kwi Riyom Riyom 2013
65. Sara Tahoss Riyom Riyom 2001
66. Rangyeng-Bwat Tahoss Riyom Riyom 2011
67. Gwara Dadep of Sopp Bachi Riyom 2011
68. Tanjol (partly) Riyom Riyom 2001-2018
69. Tarai Riyom Riyom 2001-2018
70. Ningon village Gashish Barkin Ladi 7/7/2012
71. Bisichi (partly) Foron Barkin Ladi 30/4/2014
72. Rahol-Mazat village Ropp Barkin Ladi 14/4/2015
73. Kai village Gashish Barkin Ladi 19/2/2014
74. Mallel Gashish Barkin Ladi 19/2/2014
75. Bel of Sho Ropp Barkin Ladi 9/3/2015
76. Rahei Sho Ropp Barkin Ladi 3/4/2015
77. Zim village Ropp Barkin Ladi 19/5/2015
78. Jong village Ropp Barkin Ladi 19/5/2015
79. Rabuk village Ropp Barkin Ladi 19/5/2015
80. Luk-Fei village Ropp Barkin Ladi 19/2/2014
81. Lobiring Ropp Barkin Ladi 19/5/2015
82. Ngio Gashish District Gashish Barkin Ladi 7/7/2012
83. Kachin Gashish Gashish Barkin Ladi 7/11/2012
84. Soi Gashish Gashish Barkin Ladi 23/6/2018
85. Ruku, Gashish Gashish Barkin Ladi 23/6/2018
86. Tissan, Gashish Gashish Barkin Ladi 23/6/2018
87. Ku-bong Gashish Barkin Ladi 21/2/2014
88. Rahwol Bachom (Angwan Alade) Gashish Barkin Ladi 21/2/2014
89. Rakwok Ropp Barkin Ladi 21/2/2014
90. Kereng (Kafi Abu) Gashish Barkin Ladi 21/2/2014
91. Hwol Layal of Gassa Ropp Barkin Ladi 2001
92. Wong of Ropp Ropp Barkin Ladi 2007
93. Nshi-peng of Ropp Ropp Barkin Ladi 2007
94. Fagawang of Fan District Fan Barkin Ladi
95. Rarin of Sho Ropp Barkin Ladi 30/8/2015
96. Ku-jei Sho Ropp Barkin Ladi 2/2/2015
97. Pwabeduk Gashish Gashish Barkin Ladi 7/7/2012
98. Hyai village Gashish Barkin Ladi 7/7/2012
99. Kufang Gashish Barkin Ladi 7/7/2012
100. Sharu village Gashish Barkin Ladi 7/7/2012
101. Dogo village Gashish Barkin Ladi 7/7/2012
102. Rantis Gashish Barkin Ladi 7/7/2012
2.5 Furthermore, the Emancipation Centre for Crisis victims in Nigeria with the affected associations have equally provided an outline of the ramifications and impacts of land grabbed on its victims. These considerations are indeed, an integral part of the experiences of victims, especially in terms of inaccessibility to ancestral homelands, threats and intimidation, exploitation and general impoverishment which victims continue to suffer in the face of grabbed lands.
2.6 Therefore, it would be pertinent for Government to take cognizance of the full implications and costs of the damage occasioned by this crime.
2.7 While considering the cost of grabbed lands to the victims, it is imperative to note the following:
2.7.1 The duration and time of the invasion and occupation of the properties;
2.7.2 Opportunity cost incurred in terms of the denial of access to streams, routes to farms and gardens, dams for irrigation and fish ponds as well as economic trees and plantations; and
2.7.3 Houses, Worship places, Schools and clinics, Markets, shops & kiosks, canteens and restaurants, mills and workshops, transportation inconveniences; Vehicles, Cars, motorcycles, tricycles and bikes amongst others.
2.8 It is also important to note that most of the victims of land grab themselves own Cattle, sheep, Goats, Pigs, Chicken and other animals. Therefore, their losses should include a wide variety of livestock.
2.9 Similarly, in terms of crops, cereals and vegetables, it should be clear that a lot of these form the backbone of subsistence and indeed income of many individuals and households through the production, processing and marketing of cash crops such as Fonio (Accha), Finger-Millet, Peas Sorghum, Potatoes, Tomatoes, Beans, Pepper, Banana, vegetables amongst others.
2.10 In this sense, it is pertinent to note that when an individual or family loses their lands to grabbers for so many years, it is not difficult to establish the direct link between such losses with hunger, unemployment, poverty and apathy.
3.0 PRAYERS
On the whole, ECCVN alongside the associations passionately praying the Plateau State Government to, as a matter of urgency, pursue both legal and restorative justice by ensuring that:
3.1 The natural and traditional rights of the victims of land grab should be respected, guaranteed and enforced under the extant laws of the land;
3.2 An express order of evacuation be made to all illegal occupiers and users of lands, dams, ponds, streams, homes and other properties;
3.3 A machinery be not only put in place to identify lands and properties grabbed and the trespassers, but a means also be devised to guarantee the protection of victims upon return to their homesteads;
3.4 For the losses and disruption on account of land grab and annexation of other properties, a Technical Committee of Valuers be constituted in order for adequate financial compensation be recommended for payment by culprits, occupiers and government to victims;
3.5 All customary lands should be duly registered and documented, under the law of the land;
3.6 Where necessary, Forest Rangers and Livestock Guards should be constituted, reactivated, strengthened, empowered and integrated with Land Administration Protocols of Government; and
3.7 Any other step/prayer deemed fit in the circumstance(s) of this petition.
4.0 CONCLUSION
4.1 It is the firm belief of the petitioners that Justice remains the bedrock of peace, progress and development in all human societies. Therefore, the Plateau State Government and all its agencies owe all citizens who have suffered the menace of land grab and other crimes the duty of upholding justice in the face of this evil and man’s inhumanity to man.”
The petition was copied to:
1. The Executive Secretary of National Human Rights Commission, FCT Abuja.
2. The State Coordinator of National Human Rights Commission, Plateau State.
3. His Majesty, the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs.
4. His Royal Highness, the Braa Ngwe of Irigwe, ag Chairman Bassa Traditional Council.
5. His Royal Highness, ag Saf Ron, Chairman Bokkos Traditional Council
6. The Distinguished Senator representing Plateau North, National Assembly Abuja
7. The Distinguished Senator representing Plateau Central, National Assembly Abuja
8. Hon. Member representing Riyom/Barkin Ladi at National Assembly, Abuja
9. Hon. Member representing Mangu/Bokkos at National Assembly, Abuja.
10. Hon. Member representing Barkin Ladi LGA at Plateau State House of Assembly.
11. Hon. Member representing Bassa LGA at Plateau State House of Assembly
12. Hon. Member representing Bokkos LGA at Plateau State House of Assembly
13. Hon. Member representing Riyom LGA at Plateau State House of Assembly.
14. The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Police Command.
15. The Commander of Operation Safe Haven-OPSH, Plateau State Headquarters, Jos.
16. The President of Nigerian Bar Association-NBA, National Secretariat, FCT Abuja.
17. The President of Christian Lawyers Fellowship of Nigeria-CLASFON, FCT Abuja.
18. The Director of State Security Services, Plateau State.
19. The Plateau State Commandant, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corp
20. The Permanent Secretary on Security, Plateau State.
21. The Coordinator, Operation Rainbow Headquarters, Plateau State
22. Conference of Autochthonous Ethnic Communities Development Associations (CONAECDA).
23. The Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State.
24. The Chairman, Christian Lawyers Association of Nigeria (CLASFON), Plateau State.
25. Plateau Initiative for the Development and Advancement of Natives (PIDAN).
26. The Hon. Chairman of Bokkos LGA
27. The Hon. Chairman of Bassa LGA
28. The Hon. Chairman of Barkin Ladi LGA
29. The Hon. Chairman of Riyom LGA
30. The Chairman of Plateau Youth Council.
Continue Reading
(DDM) – A dramatic scene unfolded in Aku community, Imo State, as a family burial turned chaotic over allegations of financial settlement demands by the deceased’s first son.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the first son, identified as Uzoma Nwawere, reportedly blocked the burial of his late mother, insisting that his married sisters and their husbands must “settle” him before interment could proceed.
The incident occurred at the family compound where a large crowd gathered for the ceremony, only for the event to descend into confusion.
Eyewitnesses said Uzoma argued that his late mother and sisters had allegedly disrespected him while she was alive, depriving him of the recognition traditionally accorded to a first son.
A retired police officer at the scene narrated in Igbo that the deceased’s husband, Godwin Nwawere, had passed away earlier, leaving behind Uzoma as the first son and several daughters now married into different families.
The officer alleged that Uzoma had lived in the family compound for years, claiming he was left to fend for himself “on credit” while his sisters enjoyed better treatment.
He accused the daughters of conspiring with their late mother to undermine Uzoma’s status as heir to the family property, a situation that allegedly fueled tensions even before her death.
Reports indicated that Uzoma insisted the burial could not hold in the family compound, which he now claims as inheritance, unless his in-laws complied with his demands for settlement.
A viral video from the scene showed mourners and family members exchanging heated words near a freshly dug grave as light rain drizzled over the area.
In the footage, relatives and sympathizers were seen pleading with Uzoma to allow the burial to proceed, but he reportedly stood his ground.
The argument quickly attracted onlookers, causing embarrassment for the family and disrupting what was expected to be a solemn ceremony.
Cultural analysts say disputes over inheritance and burial rites are common in parts of Igbo land, particularly when tensions exist between sons and married daughters.
They note that first sons traditionally hold significant authority in family affairs, including burial decisions, but such authority can spark conflicts when perceived to be misused.
Social media reactions to the incident have been mixed, with some condemning Uzoma’s action as insensitive, while others argue that cultural norms were ignored by the deceased’s daughters.
As of press time, it was unclear whether the burial was eventually completed or postponed, as efforts to reach the family for clarification were unsuccessful.
(DDM) – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of thirty-six suspected internet fraudsters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the operation was carried out by operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate of the anti-graft agency.
The sting operation reportedly took place on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at various locations within Port Harcourt.
According to EFCC officials, the arrests followed credible intelligence linking the suspects to widespread internet-related fraud.
Authorities disclosed that the crackdown was part of ongoing efforts to curb cybercrime in Nigeria’s southern region.
Recovered items from the suspects included exotic vehicles, a Q-link motorcycle, and several high-end mobile phones.
Laptop computers reportedly containing incriminating documents were also seized during the coordinated raid.
EFCC stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the scale of the fraudulent activities uncovered.
The suspects are expected to face charges in court as soon as preliminary investigations are concluded.
The anti-graft commission maintained that no one would be spared in its fight against cybercrime and financial malfeasance.
Background of EFCC’s operations
The EFCC has intensified its clampdown on internet fraud across Nigeria in recent years.
In 2024, the agency recorded multiple arrests in Lagos, Abuja, and Benin City as part of its cybercrime crackdown.
Cybercrime, popularly called “Yahoo Yahoo” in Nigeria, has continued to tarnish the nation’s international image.
According to law enforcement data, billions of naira are lost annually to internet scams originating from Nigeria.
Experts link the rise of internet fraud to unemployment, economic hardship, and greed among youths.
EFCC has repeatedly urged young Nigerians to explore legitimate sources of income rather than resort to fraudulent schemes.
Port Harcourt under spotlight
Port Harcourt, a major commercial hub in the Niger Delta, has seen a surge in cybercrime activities in recent years.
Authorities believe the city’s thriving nightlife and influx of oil wealth make it a hotspot for fraud syndicates.
Previous raids in 2023 and 2024 led to the arrest of over 150 suspects, with many facing prosecution.
The EFCC warned that more sting operations would follow as part of its ongoing anti-fraud campaign.
Conclusion
The latest arrests signal a renewed drive by the EFCC to dismantle cybercrime networks across Nigeria.
The agency has promised to release further updates as investigations progress and suspects face legal proceedings.
News
Anambra Govt Arrests, Beats Up 18 Journalists Monitoring Senatorial Bye-Election
By Chuks Collins, Awka
The Anambra State Government has reportedly arrested eighteen journalists, who were touring electoral Wards and communities of the 7 Councils that made up the Anambra South senatorial zone where the bye-elections were held on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
Our correspondent reported that the journalists were arrested and detained at gunpoint by the operatives of the Anambra State Vigilante Service, generally known as Udo-Gachi.
The journalists had gone to Nnewi, in Nnewi North, as well as Ukpor, Osumenyi, Ezinifite, Amichi and other communities in Nnewi South LGA of the State to monitor proceedings in the bye-elections.
The journalists, it was learnt, were rushing after the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship flag bearer, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, for his remarks on the day’s process after covering the day’s proceedings.
At a spot, described as Eke Orsumenyi, they were jolted when their vehicle was forcefully stopped.
They were, thereafter, detained for more than three hours, allegedly on the orders of the State ‘s Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Gilbert Ibezim, according to the security operatives.
“Journalists are the problem of Nigeria, they write whatever they like and deceive the people.
“We will deal with you people today,” an overzealous Udogachi operative threatened the journalists.
Some of the journalists and their cameramen were arrested and detained by the vigilante goons.
The journalists include correspondents of The Guardian, Daily Independent, Authority Newspaper, Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Arise TV, TVC, National Vision and National Daily newspapers.
The leader of the over one hundred vigilante operatives who kept surging in with about 20 vehicles said that the arrest was on the instruction of the Anambra State Deputy Governor.
As the altercations continued, the Deputy Governor, in company of Nnewi South LGA Mayor, arrived the scene and ordered a thorough search of the media practitioners.
Information of the development later got to the APC gubernatorial candidate in the November 8 Anambra State governorship election.
Prince Ukachukwu quickly arrived the scene and ensured that the detained journalists were released, insisting that they we’re merely doing their normal civic duties.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the collation of the bye-election in the seven local government areas that constitute the Anambra South senatorial zone.
(DDM) – Popular Nollywood actor Segun Remi, widely known by his stage name Chief Kanran, has passed away at the age of 72.
The news of his death was confirmed by celebrity journalist Seun Oloketuyi in an Instagram post on Friday morning, though details surrounding the cause of his passing have yet to be disclosed.
Chief Kanran was a celebrated figure in the Yoruba film industry, known for his distinctive style, sharp humor, and commanding presence that endeared him to audiences over several decades.
He was recognized for his memorable performances in numerous stage plays and films, often portraying authoritative and affluent characters, and was considered a household name in Nigerian cinema.
Segun Remi began his career in the arts in the mid-1970s and gained popularity with notable roles in Ola Rotimi’s play “Kurunmi,” and the Lagos Television drama “Aláàfin Kanran” in 1988.
His extensive filmography includes several acclaimed Yoruba films such as “Vigilante,” “Ose-Sango,” “Eri Okan,” “Itunnu,” and “Orire,” among others.
Despite his success, Chief Kanran faced significant personal challenges, including devastating fire incidents that destroyed his home, studio, and equipment, which left him struggling and at one point homeless.
His contributions to Nollywood have been widely celebrated, with colleagues and fans mourning the loss of a veteran actor who left an indelible mark on the Nigerian entertainment industry.
This news comes as the Nollywood community recently mourned other actors, adding to the list of notable film personalities who have passed away this year.
Chief Kanran’s legacy as a pioneer and beloved actor will continue to be remembered by fans and the wider film fraternity.
In a major crackdown on cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the convictions of three internet fraudsters following a sweeping operation at a hotel located within the precincts of the former President Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) complex in Abeokuta.
The operation, which initially saw 93 suspects apprehended, has shone a spotlight on the rising tide of cybercriminal activities in high-profile Nigerian locations, underscoring the agency’s commitment to combating financial crimes in the country’s digital age.
The suspects, Isaac Akinwale, Ibrahim Azeez Olatunji, and Habeeb Oladipupo Oshundairo, pleaded guilty to an array of charges linked to false pretence, identity theft, and illicit acquisition of funds, contravening provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and the EFCC Act, 2004.
Presiding over the proceedings as a vacation judge, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu handed down measured sentences designed both as punishment and deterrence, reflecting the seriousness with which the judiciary views such offences.
EFCC operative Umar Shuaibu revealed that Isaac Akinwale operated a celebrity scam on WhatsApp under female pseudonyms, defrauding a victim of $500.
The court accepted multiple exhibits tendered by prosecution counsel Franklin Ofoma, including a 2007 Toyota Camry, a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, and a N400,000 bank draft, as proceeds and instruments of crime.
Justice Dipeolu sentenced Akinwale to three months imprisonment or an alternative fine of N1million.
Olatunji, convicted for running a romance scam, was sentenced to one month imprisonment or a N500,000 fine.
Oshundairo, who posed as an expert in service certificates and tax preparation through a fraudulent Gmail account, was ordered to perform 30 days community service.
His punishment is publicly symbolic: he must carry a banner with the cautionary message, “Cybercrime Does Not Pay. Stay Away from Cybercrime”.
In a notable twist, fourth defendant Onunoye Fawas Olamilekan entered a not guilty plea to charges of impersonating a nurse on Facebook and controlling $50 acquired via fraudulent transactions.
His counsel disputed the validity of the charges under the Cybercrimes Act, prompting the court to remand him at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending further trial in October 2025.
The EFCC had flagged a total of 23 suspects for arraignment, but only four were accommodated by the court during its session, indicating broadening investigations and prosecutions may follow.
This operation marks one of the EFCC’s largest anti-fraud sweeps from a single Nigerian location in recent memory.
The prominence of the Obasanjo Presidential Library as the scene of the arrests dramatically heightened public awareness, raising questions about the security and due diligence in hospitality establishments across the country.
Nigerian authorities continue to escalate efforts against cybercriminals, aiming to assert the rule of law over digital spaces.
The EFCC, empowered by the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act and other statutes, urges citizens to remain vigilant online and to report suspicious activities.
With growing internet adoption in Nigeria, law enforcement faces an evolving battle against increasingly sophisticated scams, making deterrent convictions like these a critical step in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
-
Featured4 days agoYour Attacks on Peter Obi Are Petty, Stop It! Chekwas Rebukes Soludo
-
News3 days agoTension in Anambra community as senior police officer shoots kinsman dead
Colleagues, others try cover-up; victim's family fights back
-
News7 days agoAnambra South Bye-Election: APC Chief Rescues Deputy Gov Caught In Vote Buying From Angry Youths
By Chuks Collins, Awka
-
News5 days agoNigerian visa applicants must provide 5-yr social media history — US embassy
-
Celebrity/Entertainment21 hours agoHow Nigerian TikToker Geh Geh Made ₦45 Million in One Night
-
Analysis6 days agoSystemic Sabotage: How APC, INEC Colluded To Undermine Amamgbo’s Senatorial Bid
By Arthur Ezechukwu
-
News3 days agoTerrorist Organisation: APC, PDP Members in US, UK, France Risk Deportation
-
Celebrity/Entertainment5 days agoWhy single mothers can’t raise boys into proper men — Jim Iyke
-
News6 days agoBREAKING: Troops arrest Nigeria’s most wanted terror kingpin
-
News2 days agoVandal electrocuted while vandalizing Aba power infrastructure