Mompha loses bid to quash N6bn money-laundering charges

Justice Mojisola Dada of the Lagos State Special Offences Court, Ikeja, on Tuesday dismissed a no-case submission filed by social media celebrity, Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, in his alleged N6bn money-laundering trial.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had on January 12, 2022, arraigned Mompha alongside his company, Ismalob Global Investment Limited, on eight counts bordering on conspiracy to launder funds, retention of criminal proceeds, failure to disclose assets, and possession of false documents.

The EFCC alleged that in 2016, Mompha, his associate, Ahmadu Mohammed (still at large), and Ismalob Global Investment Limited conspired to conduct financial transactions totalling N5.99bn to promote unlawful activities, specifically obtaining money by false pretence.

Mompha pleaded not guilty.

Prosecution counsel, S. I. Suleiman, called five witnesses before closing the case.

Rather than open their defence, Mompha’s lawyer, Kolawole Salami, filed a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution had failed to establish a link between his client and the alleged offences.

Delivering ruling on Tuesday, Justice Dada held that the EFCC had established a prima facie case against the defendants and ordered Mompha and his company to enter their defence.

The matter was adjourned to January 27 and 28, 2026, for the defence to commence.

Mompha, a Dubai-based social media personality known for flaunting luxury cars, designer pieces, and a lavish lifestyle, has been on the EFCC’s radar for years over alleged internet-related fraud and money-laundering activities.

He was first arrested by the agency in 2019 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, over alleged laundering of funds obtained through unlawful means. He was later arraigned before a Federal High Court in Lagos and granted bail, but was re-arrested in 2022 over fresh charges linked to his company.

The EFCC maintains that billions of naira were laundered through Ismalob Global Investment Limited, while Mompha insists his wealth was legitimately earned through foreign exchange and investment businesses.