A self-acclaimed gospel singer and eight others have been convicted for cybercrime and financial fraud by courts in Kwara State. The convictions were secured by the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a statement issued on July 18, 2025, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the sentencing of Moses Otitoju, a 31-year-old gospel artist from Kogi State. Otitoju, who claimed to perform at weddings and funerals, was found guilty of cyber-related offenses and sentenced to six months imprisonment without the option of a fine by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court, Ilorin. Investigations revealed that he retained N8.4 million in illicit funds in his bank account, violating provisions of the EFCC Act (2004).
Other Convictions:
Ayodele Joseph: 8 months imprisonment without an option of fine, with forfeiture of a Techno 19 phone.
Adeoye Joseph: 8 months imprisonment without an option of fine; forfeited $220, an iPhone 13, and a Techno Pop 9.
Abubakar Aliyu Abdulmalik: 6 months imprisonment; forfeited an iPhone 16 and a Samsung S10.
Additional Sentences by Kwara State High Court:
Abdulkadir Taofeek: 3 years imprisonment with an option of N500,000 fine; forfeited N800,000, an iPhone 14 Pro Max, and a Samsung phone.
Emeka Oluwatobi Achi, Isaac Babalola Oluwafemi, and Afolabi Faith Olatoye: Each sentenced to 6 months imprisonment or a fine of N100,000.
Notably, Emeka was ordered to refund N3.35 million within three months.
Prosecution & Restitution:
The EFCC prosecution team, led by Aliyu Adebayo, presented key evidence including bank statements, digital devices, and recovered funds, which played a vital role in securing the convictions. In some cases, parents or guardians of the convicted were ordered to assist in restitution payments.
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to curbing cybercrime and financial fraud, warning that offenders will face the full wrath of the law, including imprisonment, forfeiture, and restitution.
