The Lagos State Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja has dismissed a no-case submission filed by social media personality Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, in his ongoing ₦5.9 billion money laundering trial. Justice Mojisola Dada ruled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had successfully established a prima facie case against Mompha and …
Court Rejects Mompha’s No-Case Submission, Orders Trial in ₦5.9bn Money Laundering
The Lagos State Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja has dismissed a no-case submission filed by social media personality Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, in his ongoing ₦5.9 billion money laundering trial.
Justice Mojisola Dada ruled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had successfully established a prima facie case against Mompha and his company, Ismalob Global Investment Limited, requiring them to open their defence.
The judge ordered the defendants to respond to the charges, stressing that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to warrant a full defence.
The case was adjourned to January 27 and 28, 2026, for continuation of hearing.
How Mompha was Charged
Mompha, a Dubai-based businessman famed for flaunting a lavish lifestyle on social media, faces an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy to launder funds obtained through unlawful activity, retention of criminal proceeds, failure to disclose assets, and possession of fraudulent documents.
READ ALSO: Kanu Declines to Open Defence, Insists No Case Against Him
One of the charges alleged that Mompha, alongside one Ahmadu Mohammed and Ismalob Global Investment Limited, conspired in 2016 to conduct financial transactions worth ₦5,998,884,653.18 with the intent to promote unlawful activities, particularly obtaining money by false pretence.
Since 2019, Mompha has faced multiple prosecutions by the EFCC, accused of laundering billions of naira for cybercrime syndicates and using his company to disguise illicit funds.
He has consistently denied all allegations, claiming he is being persecuted and that the charges against him are politically motivated.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Keep in touch with our news & offers
