The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Sokoto Zonal Office, on Friday, October 18, 2019 secured the conviction of one Momoh Ibrahim Onimisi before Justice Malami Umar Dogondaji of Sokoto State High Court.
Onimisi was convicted on a one-count charge of intent to defraud to the tune of N300,000.00 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira) only.
The convict’s journey to prison started sometime in October 2018 when he approached the complainant, James Olurunfemi under false pretence that his company Rabase Nigeria Ltd was awarded a contract by the Conference of Primary Schools Head Teachers of Nigeria, Sokoto State Chapter and that he needed the sum of N300,000.00 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira) to execute it, whereas he neither own a company, nor was awarded any contract.
The charge reads: “That you Momoh Ibrahim Onimisi, sometime in October 2018 at Sokoto, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court with intent to defraud, dishonestly misappropriated the sum of N300,000.00 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira) only, belonging to one James Olurunfemi and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 308 of the Penal Code Law and punishable under Section 309 of the same law.’’
Onimisi pleaded guilty to the charge upon his arraignment.
In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, M. M Gwani asked the court to convict and sentence him in line with the plea bargain agreement reached by the prosecution and defence on the matter.
The defence counsel, M. D Uwais, however, pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy as his client was a first time offender, who has become remorseful. He also told the court that the defendant has made a restitution to the victim to the tune of his lost sum.
Justice Dogondaji convicted and sentenced the defendant to one year imprisonment with N5000 (Five Thousand Naira) option of fine.