The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has secured the conviction of a Deputy Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Sani Lawal, for employment fraud.
The conviction followed a plea bargain agreement entered into between the prosecution and the defence and was affirmed by Justice A.A. Bawale of Katsina State High Court No. 3.
Delivering judgment, the court found the defendant guilty and sentenced him to pay a fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira (₦100,000.00).
During the proceedings, counsel to the ICPC, Haruna Hedima., informed the court that the defendant, sometime in 2024, corruptly obtained the sum of Nine Hundred and Twenty Thousand Naira (₦920,000.00) from two complainants, under the false pretence of securing employment for them in the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Although the defendant was initially arraigned on an eight-count charge bordering on employment fraud, the conviction was entered on two counts in line with the terms of the plea bargain agreement adopted by the court.
The offences are contrary to Section 25(1)(a) and punishable under Section 25(1)(b) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
Justice Bawale subsequently adopted the terms of the plea bargain as the judgment of the court, thereby convicting and sentencing the defendant accordingly.
The conviction underscores the Commission’s unwavering commitment to combating corruption in all its forms, including fraudulent recruitment schemes that exploit unsuspecting members of the public.
The ICPC reiterated its warning to Nigerians to be wary of individuals who demand money or other forms of gratification with promises of securing employment in government ministries, departments and agencies, as recruitment into public service is governed by established procedures and not through unofficial payments.
The Commission remains resolute in investigating and prosecuting all persons who engage in corrupt practices and urges members of the public to report such cases through its established reporting channels.