A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Jikwoyi, Abuja, has convicted Haruna Mamuda and Sadiq Umar for impersonating officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to facilitate fraudulent activities.
Presiding Judge Justice M. Zubairu delivered the conviction on Thursday, July 16, 2026, after the two defendants pleaded guilty to a five-count charge encompassing criminal conspiracy, impersonation, and unlawful representation.
The court proceedings revealed that the duo, alongside a third individual currently standing trial separately, conspired in March 2026 to deceive members of the public by posing as anti-graft agency operatives.
Prosecution and Defense Arguments
During the hearing, the prosecution counsel, R.U. Adagba, formally requested the court to proceed with sentencing based on the defendants’ admissions of guilt.
The legal representation for the convicts sought leniency. The counsel for Mamuda, Anamegbumam Innocent, highlighted his client’s remorse, family responsibilities, and cooperation with the Commission. Similarly, Bemdo Asan, counsel for Umar, urged the court to consider his client’s lack of prior convictions.
Aggravating Factors
The prosecution presented significant aggravating factors to the court. Adagba noted that Mamuda is a dismissed member of the Nigerian Army, arguing that a stern sentence is necessary to serve as a public deterrent.
Furthermore, the court was informed that the defendants are currently facing additional charges related to terrorism financing and kidnapping, which are being handled by the Department of State Security Services (DSS).
Justice Zubairu has adjourned the case until July 22, 2026, for the final sentencing. In the interim, both men have been remanded in EFCC custody.
Do you want to advertise with us?
Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event?
Contact us on WhatsApp +2348033617468, +234 816 612 1513, +234 703 010 7174
or Email: validviewnetwork@gmail.com
CLICK TO JOIN OUR WHATSAPP GROUP