In a decisive judgment, Justice I. Nwosu of the FCT High Court in Maitama, Abuja, sentenced Nelson Solomon to one year imprisonment or a fine of N50,000 for internet fraud. Solomon was convicted on two counts of impersonation, cheating, and obtaining money under false pretenses after being nabbed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The case revealed that Solomon posed as fictitious American individuals—John Scott, an engineer, and William Fernando—to deceive two unsuspecting victims, Webbi J.W. Mary and Miguela Okayama, each for $100. His fraudulent activities breached Sections 321 and 324 of the Penal Code Act, Laws of the Federation.
After pleading guilty, the court swiftly delivered its judgment. In addition to the sentence, Solomon’s iPhone, which was used in carrying out the fraud, was confiscated by the government.
The case serves as a stern reminder that no matter how small the fraud, justice will be served. The ruling reflects the ongoing efforts to clamp down on cybercrime in Nigeria, sending a clear message that crime, no matter how small, won’t go unpunished.
