The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria has arraigned 20 foreign nationals before the Federal High Court in Lagos for alleged cybercrime and attempts to destabilize Nigeria’s social and economic structure.
The accused—comprising 15 Filipinos, one Indonesian, and four Chinese nationals—were part of a larger group of 193 foreigners and 599 Nigerians arrested in December 2024 during a surprise operation at the Big Leaf Building in Victoria Island, Lagos. The EFCC launched the raid based on credible intelligence about suspected cyber-related offenses.
During Thursday’s court session, EFCC counsel Nwandu Ukoha requested that the charges be read to the defendants so they could enter their pleas. With the assistance of an interpreter, all defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecution then urged the court to remand the suspects in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service pending trial. However, defense lawyers Bridget Omoteno and B.A. Ukpai opposed the motion, requesting a short adjournment to explore the possibility of a plea bargain for their clients.
Justice Musa Kakaki granted the prosecution’s request and ordered the detention of the defendants until trial. The case was adjourned to March 18 and 20 for further proceedings.
According to the EFCC, the suspects, alongside their employer, Genting International Co. Limited, allegedly accessed computer systems in a manner that could destabilize Nigeria’s economic and social structure. They are also accused of recruiting Nigerian youths for identity theft and impersonation to gain financial advantages.
The charges against them fall under Sections 18, 22(2)(b), and 27 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended in 2024). If convicted, the defendants face severe penalties under Nigerian law.
This high-profile cybercrime case underscores the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes and protect Nigeria’s digital and economic integrity.
