…Suspects allegedly attempted to extort former NPA MD, claiming to influence EFCC investigations.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned two suspects, Ojobo Joshua and Aliyu Hashim, accused of impersonating the EFCC’s Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, in a plot to extort $1 million from former Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Managing Director, Mohammed Bello-Koko.
The arraignment took place on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, before Justice Jude Onwuebuzie at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja.
According to the EFCC, Joshua and Hashim contacted Bello-Koko, claiming insider knowledge of an alleged investigation targeting him. They reportedly demanded $1 million in exchange for arranging a “soft landing,” threatening legal action if he refused.
A four-count charge was filed against the duo for impersonation and attempted fraud under Nigeria’s Advanced Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act No. 14, 2006.
In court, both defendants pleaded not guilty. EFCC counsel Elizabeth Alabi urged the court to deny bail and remand them in custody to ensure their appearance for trial.
The first defendant, Joshua, was granted bail at N100 million, with stringent conditions including two high-ranking civil service sureties and the surrender of his passport. Both defendants were ordered held at Kuje Correctional Centre until they meet bail terms.
The suspects, part of a larger syndicate, were arrested in Abuja’s Garki and Apo areas. Their trial will continue on November 18, 2024, when the court will consider bail for the second defendant.
