Undergraduate Student in Port Harcourt Sentenced to Two Years for Impersonation and Scamming

In a significant legal development in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, a young undergraduate student from Rivers State University found himself on the wrong side of the law.

Chika Eguma Ekwodu has been convicted and sentenced to two years in prison for impersonation and obtaining money by false pretences. The verdict was delivered by Justice P. I. Ajoku of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt, on October 10, 2023. This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of online fraud and the importance of upholding the law.

Ekwodu’s conviction is based on two-count charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), relating to impersonation and obtaining money under false pretences. These charges are in violation of Section 22(2) (b) (ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, and are punishable under Section 22(2) (b) (iv) of the same Act.

One of the charges specifically accuses Ekwodu of fraudulent impersonation. It states that he misrepresented himself as “Scarlett,” a purported bitcoin trade expert, with the intent of gaining an unfair advantage. This action is in violation of the Cybercrime Act and is punishable by law.

Ekwodu chose to plead guilty to both counts when they were presented to him in court. In light of his guilty plea, the prosecuting counsel, M. Abubakar, after presenting a witness, urged the court to proceed with conviction and sentencing. On the other side, the defence counsel, N. F. Okemini, implored the court to consider the defendant’s status as a first-time offender with no prior criminal record. She emphasised that he is a student currently in the midst of his exams, urging the court to opt for a fine as a more lenient punishment that would enable him to continue his education.

In her deliberation, Justice Ajoku ruled that Ekwodu would serve one year in the Correctional Service for each of the two counts, amounting to a total of two years. However, she provided an alternative: Ekwodu could pay a fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200,000.00) for each count, payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The judge went further, ordering the forfeiture of Ekwodu’s ill-gotten gains from his fraudulent activities. This included a purple-coloured iPhone 14 Pro and the sum of Four Thousand, Five Hundred United States Dollars ($4,500), both of which would be handed over to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Additionally, Ekwodu was directed to submit an affidavit of good behaviour before the court, further emphasising the importance of rehabilitation and a commitment to lawful conduct.

Ekwodu’s journey into the Correctional Centre commenced when he was apprehended by the operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the EFCC. The charges levied against him were linked to internet-related offences, and the legal process culminated in his conviction.

This case is a significant stride in the fight against online fraud and impersonation. It serves as a powerful reminder that justice will prevail in cases of cybercrimes and that the law will be upheld. While it is unfortunate to witness a young individual facing the consequences of criminal activities, it is vital to understand the broader implications of such cases. Cybercrimes can have a profound impact on victims and society as a whole, making the enforcement of relevant laws a crucial step in preserving the integrity of online interactions and transactions.

In closing, Ekwodu’s conviction underscores the significance of ethical online conduct and the importance of adhering to the law. It serves as a stark warning to those who engage in fraudulent activities, highlighting the legal repercussions that may follow.