$53000 Scam: A Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced Ikpaka Courage to two years in prison for impersonating Nigerian singer Flavour and scamming a U.S. citizen out of $53,000.

Court Convicts Ikpaka Courage for $53,000 Scam

On September 4, 2024, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu sentenced Ikpaka Courage to two years of imprisonment for posing as Chinedu Okoli, famously known as Flavour, a prominent Nigerian singer. The scam involved deceiving Yvelte Thompson, a resident of the United States, out of $53,000.

Details of the Crime

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) detailed the case, noting that Courage, a Philosophy graduate, was charged with cybercrimes and money laundering.

The EFCC report indicates that Courage misled Thompson by pretending to be Flavour through his Telegram account, falsely promising a performance in Washington, DC.

The charges against Courage were twofold:

1. False Representation: The first charge stated that in April 2021, Courage falsely claimed to be Flavour on his Telegram account to obtain financial benefits.
2. Unlawful Retention: The second charge involved Courage holding $53,000 in his bank account, knowing it was obtained through fraudulent means.

Court Proceedings and Sentencing: $53000 Scam

Courage admitted guilt to both charges. During the court session, EFCC operative Azibagiri Dan Ekpar testified that Courage confessed to the scam and provided evidence of his fraudulent activities.

Courage had forged documents and created a fake email address to deceive Thompson. He had also used a Bitcoin wallet to collect the funds.

In his defense, Courage’s lawyer, Bayo A. Phillip, argued for leniency, highlighting that Courage had used the scam’s proceeds for educational purposes and was a first-time offender.

Justice Dipeolu sentenced Courage to one year for each count, with an option to pay a fine of N1,000,000 for each charge. The court also ordered the forfeiture of the $53,000 to the victim and mandated that Courage remain in EFCC custody until the forfeiture is completed.

Conclusion: $53000 Scam

Ikpaka Courage’s case underscores the severe consequences of online fraud and impersonation. The court’s decision serves as a reminder of the legal risks involved in cybercrimes.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by news

Nigeria’s Tax Collection Struggles

Bill Gates, the American billionaire philanthropist, recently highlighted Nigeria’s low tax collection during his speech at the Nutrivision 2024 event in Abuja.

The co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation expressed concerns over Nigeria’s financial strategies, emphasizing the need for improved tax revenue.

Nigeria’s Tax Collection Challenges

At the Nutrivision 2024 conference, Gates addressed the question of financing mechanisms for Nigeria’s public health initiatives.

He stressed that Nigeria’s low tax collection rates are hindering the government’s ability to fund large-scale health projects. Gates urged for better fiscal policies to enhance public health funding.

Agricultural Potential and Economic Growth

Gates also discussed Nigeria’s potential to become a net food exporter, given its extensive land and favorable soil types.

He noted that with the right credit facilities, soil surveys, and agricultural support, Nigeria could transform from a net food importer into a major food exporter. This shift could significantly boost the nation’s economy and reduce reliance on foreign currency for food imports.

Focus on Agricultural Productivity

Gates emphasized the importance of improving agricultural productivity to benefit rural areas, particularly in the northern regions of Nigeria.

By adopting digital technologies and better seeds, Nigeria could achieve substantial gains in food output. This improvement would contribute to economic equity and address nutritional issues.

Prioritizing Health and Education

The billionaire philanthropist also highlighted the need for Nigeria to prioritize health and education funding.

He suggested that citizens should have confidence in public and private programs designed to enhance primary health care. Gates’ foundations are actively involved in demonstrating effective and efficient health care systems.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

Bill Gates’ insights at the Nutrivision 2024 event underline critical issues in Nigeria’s tax collection and public health funding.

Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to reform tax policies and invest in agricultural and health sectors for sustained economic growth and improved public services.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by news

Oyo Court: The Oyo court has handed down sentences to 39 internet fraudsters, marking a significant crackdown on fraudulent activities. These individuals faced separate charges related to impersonation, cheating, and possession of fraudulent documents.

The convictions were secured by the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), overseen by Justices O.S. Adeyemi, Bayo Taiwo, and Ladiran Akintola at the Oyo State High Court.

The fraudsters were each charged with a single count related to their crimes, including obtaining by false pretence. The defendants include: Fasanya Abdulqudus Gbolahan, Nkiri Oluchukwu Destiny, Fakoya Tobi Samuel, and many others. Their fraudulent activities ranged from online impersonation to scamming individuals using false identities.

Oyo Court Sentences fraudsters: For instance, Onah Austine Ayomide was convicted for fraudulently impersonating a U.S. citizen on Facebook. The court sentenced Ayomide to either one year of community service or a fine of N200,000. Other convicts received varying sentences, including jail terms, community service, and fines.

Some of the notable sentences include:

• Tunde: One month jail term or N250,000 fine.
• Abeeb Ayomide: Six months of community service plus a fine of N500,000.
• Sijuola: One month community service or N100,000 fine.
• Olatunde and Opemiposi: Three months community service without the option of a fine.

Additionally, certain convicts forfeited their vehicles and other assets to the Federal Government. These sentences come as part of a broader effort by the EFCC to combat internet fraud and deter similar activities.

The operation that led to these convictions involved a coordinated sting operation targeting internet fraud activities. This significant legal action underscores the commitment of Nigerian authorities to address and reduce cybercrime in the region.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by news