A suspected fraudster, Akpoguma Onome Patrick, was arraigned yesterday at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, over allegations of bribery, identity theft, and obtaining money under false pretenses.
Akpoguma allegedly offered officers of the Nigeria Police Force at Zone 2, Onikan, Lagos, a bribe of N174 million in an attempt to secure his release. He is facing a seven-count charge, including conspiracy to commit a felony, identity theft, impersonation, obtaining money by false pretenses, and conversion of proceeds from his alleged crimes.
According to the charge sheet, Akpoguma allegedly impersonated a U.S. Army officer, Colonel Matt Herbert, to defraud victims both in Nigeria and the United States.
During his arraignment in Suit No. FHC/L/844C/2024, the defendant pled not guilty to all charges. The prosecution, led by Z. Arekhandia Esq., applied for a trial date, while the defense counsel, Olatunji Kolawole, informed the court of a pending bail application for his client.
Honorable Justice Kakaki, presiding over the case, adjourned the matter to February 4, 2025, for the hearing of the bail application.
The case underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement to tackle cyber fraud and related crimes in Nigeria.
