A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the mother of 19-year-old Chinonso Udeh to appear in court on November 1, 2024. Udeh was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a count of cybercrime and pleaded guilty.
Justice Ayokunle Faji made the order after expressing concern over Udeh’s lack of family support in court. The teenager was accompanied by a friend with braided hair, who claimed not to be related to Udeh.
The EFCC prosecutor, Suleiman Suleiman, reviewed the facts of the case through witness Abdulraman Mohammed, an EFCC operative. Mohammed detailed how intelligence led the EFCC to a suspected cybercrime ring in Lekki, Lagos.
The operatives conducted surveillance and carried out a sting operation, resulting in Udeh’s arrest. An iPhone XR was seized from him, revealing incriminating documents after analysis.
Udeh’s statement was taken under caution, and the prosecution submitted evidence marked as Exhibits A, B, and C without objections from the defense.
Justice Faji questioned Udeh about his background, learning that he was a painter living with a church member. Udeh stated his mother, Mrs. Marther Ude, resides in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The judge expressed surprise at Udeh’s lack of family presence and support, asking if a 19-year-old should be allowed to roam freely.
Justice Faji ordered Udeh to ensure his mother’s appearance in court on November 1 or risk imprisonment.
The EFCC alleged that Udeh impersonated a white man, “Hamdam Fazza,” on Instagram to obtain financial benefits between January 27 and April 13, 2024.
This offense contravenes Section 22(3) of the Cybercrime Prohibition Act, 2015.
Justice Faji instructed the EFCC to provide food for Udeh during his remand and directed both Udeh and his mother to bring identification documents to the next hearing.
The case was adjourned until November 1, 2024, for further proceedings.
Udeh’s fate hangs in the balance as he awaits his mother’s appearance in court, a crucial factor in determining his future.
