EFCC Secures Conviction Of Man For Land Scam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on May 10, 2017 secured the conviction of Lambert Onwuka, who was arraigned before Justice A.M. Talba of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Gudu, on a three-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, forgery and obtaining by false pretence.

Onwuka, who runs affairs at the Bitobless Links Nigeria Limited, was charged along with Munir Adamu and Monday Omachonu for a land fraud. The scam was reported to the EFCC by Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS).

In the course of the trial, just as the defence closed its case, the two other defendants rather than open their defence, jumped bail. The trial, however, continued in their absence with the prosecution presenting several documents and witnesses against him.

Justice Talba, after going through all the evidence brought before the court, ruled that: “the prosecution has proved its case beyond every reasonable doubt, and they are found guilty and convicted accordingly”.

Onwuka was subsequently sentenced to seven years in prison without an option of fine for the charge of obtaining by false pretence, seven years each on the counts of criminal conspiracy and forgery with an option of N50,000 fine on each count.

Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to ensure that the other defendants are re-arrested for them to face their sentencing.