Justice Mojisola Dada of the Lagos State Special Offences Court, Ikeja, has dismissed a no-case submission filed by social media personality Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, in his ongoing ₦6 billion money laundering case.
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.
According to the EFCC, Mompha, in 2016, allegedly conspired with his associate, Ahmadu Mohammed (who remains at large), and his company to conduct financial transactions amounting to ₦5.99 billion for the purpose of promoting unlawful activities, including obtaining money by false pretence. Mompha pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Prosecuting counsel, S. I. Suleiman, presented five witnesses in support of the prosecution’s case before closing its argument.
However, instead of opening the defence, Mompha’s counsel, Kolawole Salami, filed a no-case submission, contending that the EFCC had failed to establish a clear link between his client and the alleged offences.
In her ruling on Tuesday, Justice Dada held that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against the defendants. She consequently ordered Mompha and his company to open their defence, ruling that the evidence presented was sufficient to warrant a response.
The case was subsequently adjourned to January 27 and 28, 2026, for the defence to begin.
Mompha, a Dubai-based social media influencer known for flaunting luxury cars, designer items, and an extravagant lifestyle, has long been under investigation by the EFCC over alleged involvement in internet-related fraud and money laundering.
He was first arrested in 2019 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, for allegedly laundering proceeds of unlawful activities. Though later granted bail by the Federal High Court in Lagos, Mompha was re-arrested in 2022 following fresh charges linked to his company, Ismalob Global Investment Limited.
The EFCC alleges that billions of naira were funneled through the company for illicit transactions, while Mompha maintains that his wealth was earned legitimately through foreign exchange and investment businesses.
