The trial of social media personality Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, took a significant turn on Monday with testimony from Fidelity Bank’s compliance officer, Ezekoli Ozoemenam. The session, held at the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, centers around allegations of laundering ₦6 billion.
Ozoemenam, the fourth prosecution witness, provided detailed accounts of the transactions and documents tied to the account in question. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) lawyer, Suleiman Suleiman, led the evidence presentation.
Following Ozoemenam’s testimony, the prosecution moved to formally submit the bank documents as evidence. Defense counsel Kolawole Salami did not immediately contest this move but suggested potential future objections.
Adding a layer of intrigue, the prosecution requested a witness summons for the next testimonial, citing safety concerns and reports of threats against the individual. Presiding Justice Mojisola Dada emphasized the importance of witness appearances, highlighting a crucial aspect of this high-stakes trial.
Mompha’s absence from the proceedings was notable, continuing a trend that led to the trial starting in absentia on June 3, 2023. Initially arraigned with his company, Ismalob Global Investment Ltd., in January 2022, Mompha faces multiple charges including conspiracy and money laundering.
The charges are serious, encompassing conspiracy to launder money, retention of proceeds from criminal activities, and possession of fraudulent documents. Justice Dada has adjourned the trial to July 1, as the court anticipates further testimonies.
This case has garnered significant media attention due to Mompha’s social media fame and the large sums involved. His repeated absences have complicated proceedings, with the EFCC utilizing both local and international resources in their investigation.
