In a landmark legal decision that reinforces Nigeria’s determination to tackle the growing menace of cybercrime, Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Thursday, June 19, 2025, sentenced one Olukeye Adedayo to a total of 76 years in prison for multiple cyber-related offenses. The sentencing came after a comprehensive trial that lasted several months and highlighted the depth of coordination between Nigerian anti-corruption agencies and international law enforcement.
Olukeye Adedayo was originally arraigned in 2024 by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He faced an 18-count charge that detailed his involvement in a wide range of internet-based crimes. These included online impersonation, online harassment, the unlawful sharing of inappropriate content, digital financial fraud, concealment of illegally acquired funds, and the acquisition of property through false pretenses. Investigations into his activities revealed that he had fraudulently obtained a total of ₦721,500 through deceptive online means. The case drew significant public attention, given its wide scope and the fact that it involved both local and foreign victims.
The prosecution’s case was strengthened by critical witness testimonies and strong digital evidence. One of the standout moments during the trial was the appearance of a representative from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), who offered vital testimony on the cross-border nature of the crime. This collaboration between the Nigerian authorities and the RCMP showcased the increasing level of international cooperation in tackling cybercrime. Additionally, a forensic cybercrime investigator from the EFCC also took the stand and presented crucial evidence, including email correspondences, IP tracking reports, and transaction logs that directly tied the accused to the cyber fraud activities.
The court, having reviewed all evidence presented, found Adedayo guilty on all 18 counts. Justice Owoeye, in his ruling, underscored the seriousness of the offenses and the threat they posed to the integrity of Nigeria’s digital and financial space. He delivered a cumulative sentence of 76 years. Specifically, Adedayo was sentenced to two years for online harassment and inappropriate content sharing under counts 1 to 4, four years for financial fraud and concealment of illegally obtained money under counts 5 to 14, and seven years for obtaining property under false pretenses under counts 15 to 18. However, in accordance with the principle of concurrent sentencing, all the prison terms will run simultaneously, meaning Adedayo is expected to serve a maximum of seven years behind bars.
The judgment represents a major milestone for the EFCC, especially the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, as it continues to intensify efforts to prosecute cybercrime offenders. The commission hailed the ruling as a demonstration of the judiciary’s commitment to fighting digital crime and protecting innocent people from online predators. A spokesperson from the EFCC stated that the agency will not relent in its efforts to identify, track, and prosecute individuals who use digital platforms to defraud unsuspecting citizens and institutions.
In recent years, cybercrime has increasingly tarnished Nigeria’s image abroad, with many foreign institutions and governments expressing concerns about the rising trend of internet-based fraud originating from the country. Cases like Adedayo’s have become emblematic of the challenge Nigeria faces in cleaning up its digital space and reassuring the global community of its commitment to the rule of law. Through cases like this, the EFCC continues to show that no matter how elaborate or technologically advanced a fraudulent scheme may be, the long arm of the law will eventually catch up with perpetrators.
The successful prosecution of this case also serves as a wake-up call to young Nigerians who may be tempted to engage in internet fraud, popularly referred to as “Yahoo Yahoo.” Authorities warn that the short-term benefits of such crimes pale in comparison to the long-term consequences, which could include public shame, lengthy prison sentences, and a ruined future. The judgment is expected to send a clear signal that cybercrime is not only morally and legally wrong but also punishable under Nigerian law with severe consequences.
The case also underscores the growing importance of international cooperation in tackling transnational cybercrime. The involvement of the RCMP highlighted how Nigerian fraudsters are increasingly operating across borders, making it necessary for law enforcement bodies in different countries to work together closely. This successful collaboration between Nigeria and Canada sets a strong precedent for future cross-border prosecutions and reinforces the need for global solidarity in the fight against digital crime.
As the nation continues to battle with the scourge of cybercrime, the case of Olukeye Adedayo stands as both a stern warning and a clear example of what lies ahead for those who choose to exploit the internet for criminal purposes. The EFCC continues to urge Nigerians to shun all forms of fraud and to report suspicious online activities to the relevant authorities. The commission also emphasizes that crime does not pay, and the law will always take its course.
Note these reports are all allegedly, as seen on the internet.
Written By Crystal Star
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