The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) successfully secured the conviction of Mr. Solomon Ogodo, a Superintendent in the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), for engaging in forgery, employment racketeering, and fraud. The case, initiated in December 2022 under charge number CR/503/2022, was heard by Justice M.S. Idris at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Jabi, Abuja. Mr. Ogodo was accused of defrauding unsuspecting individuals of a total of ₦12.2 million by falsely promising employment opportunities within the Nigeria Correctional Services (NCoS).

During the proceedings, ICPC’s prosecutor, Mr. Hamza Sani, provided compelling evidence that Mr. Ogodo had forged provisional appointment letters for job seekers in exchange for significant sums of money. His actions violated multiple legal provisions, including Section 13 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000 and Sections 363 and 364 of the Penal Code Act. Additionally, his fraudulent activities contravened Section 1 of the Advanced Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act of 2006.

Justice Idris sentenced Mr. Ogodo to seven years in prison for counts 1 to 3, without an option of a fine. For count 4, the court imposed two months imprisonment or a ₦5,000 fine, while count 5 resulted in a two-month prison term without an option of a fine. Moreover, the court invoked Section 319 (1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, ordering Mr. Ogodo to repay the total sum defrauded to his victims as restitution.

This case underscores ICPC’s commitment to addressing corruption and fraudulent practices, ensuring justice for victims and accountability for offenders in Nigeria’s public service.