EFCC Arraigns Man for Allegedly Impersonating Anti-Graft Operative in Abuja

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arraigned a man identified as Salifu Olije Mustapha before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Kubwa, Abuja, over allegations of impersonation and fraud. According to the anti-graft agency, Mustapha was accused of falsely presenting himself as an operative of the EFCC and allegedly using the fake identity to deceive and extort unsuspecting members of the public.

The defendant appeared before Justice A.I. Akobi on a four-count charge bordering on impersonation, misrepresentation, and fraudulent activities. The Commission alleged that the suspect worked alongside other individuals to carry out operations disguised as official EFCC assignments.

Court documents revealed that Mustapha allegedly posed as an officer of the Nigerian Air Force while aiding two other suspects, identified as Abubakar, who is currently at large, and Haruna Mamuda, who is reportedly under investigation by another law enforcement agency.

The EFCC claimed the suspects dressed in fake EFCC operational uniforms and moved around Abuja in a Toyota Corolla with registration number KTU399GT. They were allegedly seen at Sheriff Plaza in Wuse II, Abuja, where they reportedly targeted and defrauded unsuspecting individuals.

Another charge filed against Mustapha accused him of falsely assuming the identity of a public servant and using that position to obtain money from members of the public under false pretences.

When the charges were read in court, the defendant pleaded guilty to all four counts brought against him. Following the guilty plea, prosecution counsel R.U. Adaga urged the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.

Justice Akobi subsequently adjourned the case until June 1, 2026, for sentencing.

The EFCC disclosed that Mustapha’s arrest followed intelligence reports linking him to the illegal impersonation of EFCC personnel within Abuja. Investigations reportedly uncovered that he and his accomplices had been harassing motorists and extorting money while dressed in fake anti-graft agency uniforms.

The case has once again highlighted growing concerns over criminal impersonation of security and government agencies in Nigeria, with authorities warning the public to remain vigilant and verify the identity of individuals claiming to represent law enforcement institutions.