Gombe court convicts three for employment fraud

In a landmark ruling, Justice J.A. Kereng of the Gombe State High Court on Monday convicted and sentenced three individuals for their involvement in a sophisticated employment scam.

Ibrahim Abdullahi and Umar Usman faced charges of cheating and employment fraud, while Mohammed Sala Soja was arraigned for intent to defraud.

The court heard how Abdullahi and Usman, exploiting the trust of their victims, obtained Polaris ATM cards under false pretenses, promising them lucrative job opportunities. Instead, they used the cards to secure loans amounting to a staggering N682,847 without the victims’ consent. Both defendants pleaded guilty to their charges.

Despite pleas for leniency from their defense counsel, Justice Kereng handed down sentences tailored to fit the severity of their crimes. Abdullahi received a one-year prison term with an option of a N50,000 fine, while Usman was sentenced to two years imprisonment or a similar fine.

In a separate case, Mohammed Sala Soja faced charges for fabricating a false document titled “2023 recruitment invitation for marshal’s basic course.”

Although Soja pleaded guilty, his defense counsel highlighted his remorse and his role as the breadwinner for his family, and that he is a medically challenged father.

Citing factors such as remorse and restitution to the victim, the judge sentenced Soja to six years imprisonment, with an option of a N150,000 fine.

This ruling underscores the judiciary’s commitment to combatting fraud and ensuring justice for victims. Soja is said to have other pending cases with the EFCC.