Entertainment

Mompha Pleads Not Guilty As EFCC Claims He Hid His Wealth In Wristwatches

Published

2 years ago

January 12, 2022

Ismaila Mustapha, commonly known as Mompha, an internet celebrity, concealed his fortune in wristwatches, according to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
This was revealed by the anti-graft agency during Mompha’s arraignment at the Lagos Special Offences Court in Ikeja on Wednesday, January 12..

The EFCC has charged Mompha and his company, Ismalob Global Investment Limited, with money laundering worth over N6 billion. The defendants were charged with conspiracy to launder cash earned via illegal activity, retention of funds, transfer of funds for a suspect, Olayinka Jimoh a.k.a. Nappy Boy, and unlawful movement of funds for a record label, among other charges.

According to EFCC, “Mompha concealed his interest in expensive wristwatches and other movable assets valued at over N70million.”

Mompha pleaded not guilty to the eight counts, while Islamob Limited (represented by Mompha as well) pleaded not guilty to the first six. Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo, the prosecution attorney, requested a trial date after his plea.

However, the defendant’s lawyer, Gboyega Oyewole, SAN, informed the court that they had submitted a bail application, which had been served on the EFCC. Mr. Oyedepo, in response to the bail application, requested more time to respond.

After hearing counsel’s arguments, Justice Dada, the sitting judge, adjourned the case until January 18 to hear and rule on the bail motion. Mompha was also placed in EFCC prison until his bail application was heard, according to the judge.