The Lagos State Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja on Tuesday adjourned judgment in the alleged N6 billion money laundering case involving one social media celebrity, Ismaila Mustapha, popularly known as Mompha, alongside his company, Ismalob Global Investment Limited until October15, 2026.
Justice Mojisola Dada subsequently adjourned judgment in the alleged N6 billion money laundering case on an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy to launder funds allegedly obtained through unlawful activities, retention of proceeds of criminal conduct, failure to disclose assets, and possession of documents containing false pretences, among other offences.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Mustapha alongside his company, Ismalob Global Investment Limited, on January 12, 2022.
During the trial, the lead EFCC prosecution, S. I. Suleiman, called six witnesses and tendered several documentary exhibits before closing its case.
At the resumed proceedings, defence counsel, Kolawole Salami, adopted the defendant’s final written address dated June 18, 2026, arguing that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against the defendants.
Defence counsel argued that the defendant’s silence did not absolve the prosecution of proving the charges beyond reasonable doubt. He maintained that the prosecution failed to establish the offences, including obtaining by false pretence and conspiracy, stressing that Exhibit P5 and witness testimonies lacked sufficient evidential value, and urged the court to acquit the defendant.
In responding, prosecuting counsel, S. I. Suleiman, urged the court to dismiss the defence and convict the defendants, arguing that six witnesses and documentary evidence proved the charges.
He added that convicting the defendants would serve as a deterrent to them and others contemplating similar offences capable of tarnishing Nigeria’s image.
After hearing the submissions of both parties, Justice Dada adjourned the matter until October 15, 2026, for judgment.