Fake EFCC Operative Arraigned in Abuja Over Alleged Impersonation and Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned a man identified as Salifu Olije Mustapha before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Kubwa over allegations of impersonation and fraud.

Mustapha appeared before A.I. Akobi on Tuesday, May 26, facing a four-count charge related to allegedly posing as both an EFCC operative and a Nigerian Air Force officer.

According to the prosecution, the defendant allegedly collaborated with two other suspects — identified as Abubakar, who is currently at large, and Haruna Mamuda, who is under investigation by another law enforcement agency.

Court documents stated that Mustapha allegedly transported the suspects, dressed in fake EFCC operational uniforms, in a Toyota Corolla with registration number KTU399GT to Sheriff Plaza, where they reportedly harassed and defrauded unsuspecting members of the public.

The prosecution further accused Mustapha of falsely presenting himself as a Nigerian Air Force officer and using the assumed identity to deceive members of the public for financial gain.

When the charges were read in court, the defendant pleaded guilty to all four counts.

Following the guilty plea, prosecution counsel R.U. Adaga urged the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.

Justice Akobi subsequently adjourned the matter until June 1, 2026, for sentencing.

The EFCC disclosed that Mustapha was arrested after intelligence reports linked him to the impersonation of EFCC officials. Investigators reportedly caught him wearing fake EFCC uniforms alongside two other suspects while allegedly extorting and intimidating motorists in Abuja.