Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday convicted and sentenced a TikToker, Olamide Bello, to three years imprisonment for impersonating an American citizen.

Court Ruling and Sentencing

The judge found Bello guilty of impersonation but granted him an option to pay a N600,000 fine in lieu of the sentence. Additionally, the court ordered the forfeiture of his iPhone 14 Pro Max and a GLK 2013 model to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Justice Owoeye ruled that Bello’s sentence would retroactively begin from December 6, 2024, the date of his arrest.

Details of the Crime

Bello, a father of a nine-month-old baby, was found guilty of posing as an American woman named Keanu Reeves to lure and defraud his victims under the guise of seeking a romantic relationship.

Defense’s Plea for Leniency

Following the conviction, Bello’s lawyer, E.O Ajoku, pleaded with the court for a non-custodial sentence or the option of a fine, arguing that:

• Bello was a first-time offender who had been in custody since December 6, 2024.
• He was remorseful and had promised not to engage in such activities again.
• As the sole provider for his family—including his mother, wife, and child—his incarceration would be detrimental to his dependents.

“I have spoken to him, and he has promised not to repeat such an act. I pray the court to give him a non-custodial sentence or an option of a fine,” Ajoku said.

EFCC’s Prosecution and Legal Basis

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), represented by prosecution counsel Chineye Okezie, confirmed that the agency had no record of prior convictions against Bello.

The convict was arraigned on a single charge of impersonation, brought by the anti-graft agency. During his arraignment on January 30, 2025, the prosecution revealed that Bello had committed the offence in December 2024.

According to the Cybercrimes Prohibition Prevention Act of 2015, the crime violated Sections 22 (2), (b) of the Act.

Bello pleaded guilty, and his sentencing was adjourned until February 3, 2025, when Justice Owoeye delivered the final verdict.

Implications and Legal Precedent

Bello’s sentencing highlights the strict enforcement of cybercrime laws in Nigeria. The ruling serves as a warning against online fraud and impersonation, reinforcing the government’s commitment to curbing internet-related offences.