Corruption

Trouble Brews for Mompha as Court Joins him in Fresh Charges Against Auto Dealer

By Obiajulu Joel Nwolu

February 02, 2021

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, included socialite Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, in an amended charge against an automobile dealer, Sarumi Babafemi, widely known as 606.

The anti-graft agency arraigned Babafemi alongside his companies; 606 Autos Limited; 606 Music Limited; and Splash Off Entertainment Limited, on five counts before the Federal High Court in Lagos.

Babafemi was accused of laundering a total of N207.1m between 2013 and 2018.

The EFCC in an amended nine counts, accused Babafemi, Mompha, one Ridwan Allison, aka Osama, said to be at large and Richard Ogbah of laundering the total sum of N157.1m.

It claimed that the beneficiaries of the funds, who are Omojadesola Allison; Olandewaju Oriyomi; Abiola Ayorinde; Bartholomew Ezeudoka and Amobi Uchenna E, received the sums of N37.6m; N93m; N1.5m and N25m respectively.

Babefemi and his companies were accused of concealing and disguising the origins of the funds he allegedly laundered for Mompha and others.

The offences, according to the EFCC, are contrary to sections 15(2)(b) and 15(3)(a) and punishable under section 15(3) of the Money laundering (prohibition) Act 2011 (as amended).

The re-arraignment of Babafemi, however, could not take place on Monday as his counsel, Muiz Banire (SAN), opposed the EFCC’s application for re-arraignment on the grounds that he was being served the amended charge while in court.

The suit was adjoined till April, 21, 22 and 23 by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke for the re-arraignment and trial of Babafemi and his companies.