An Ikeja Special Offences Court on Tuesday dismissed a no-case submission filed by internet celebrity Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, in his ₦6 billion money laundering trial.
Justice Mojisola Dada ruled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had established a prima facie case against Mompha and his company, Ismalob Global Investment Ltd., and directed the defendants to open their defence.
Mompha, who is being tried in absentia, was first arraigned on January 12, 2022, on an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy to launder funds obtained unlawfully, retention of proceeds of crime, failure to disclose assets, and possession of documents containing false pretences.
In her ruling, Justice Dada held that the evidence presented by the prosecution required explanation from the defendants, noting that the court was satisfied that they had a case to answer.
The EFCC alleged that the defendants conspired to conduct financial transactions amounting to ₦5.9 billion sometime in 2016 in Lagos, with the intent to promote unlawful activities, particularly obtaining by false pretence.
During the trial, the prosecution, led by Mr. Suleiman Suleiman, called five witnesses before closing its case.
Mompha, through his counsel, Mr. Kolawole Salami, had argued that the EFCC failed to link him to the alleged offences and urged the court to dismiss the case.
The court has adjourned the matter until January 27, 2026, for the defendants to open their defence.
