Nigeria Police File Criminal Case Over Fake Moniepoint Scandal Claims
The Nigeria Police Force has initiated a significant legal action by filing a criminal charge against two individuals, Adebayo Aliu and Fatuntele Lukmon Tunde, before the Federal High Court in Abuja. This case revolves around allegations of cyberstalking targeting Moniepoint Microfinance Bank, a prominent financial institution in Nigeria.
Court Proceedings and Adjournment
The suspects were scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, before Justice Ofili Ajumogobia on a seven-count charge. However, the arraignment could not proceed as planned due to the absence of both defendants. Neither Adebayo Aliu nor Fatuntele Lukmon Tunde appeared in court, and they were not represented by any legal counsel. In response to this situation, Justice Ajumogobia adjourned the case to April 27, 2026, to allow for their presence or representation.
Details of the Allegations
According to the charge sheet, signed by police officer Anthony A. Egwu Esq., the suspects are accused of conspiring to cyberstalk Moniepoint Microfinance Bank. They allegedly created a fraudulent online platform designed to solicit tumultuous public engagement. This platform promised a sum of five hundred thousand Naira (N500,000) to unsuspecting victims who would comment with the phrase "Moniepoint Scandal" and share fabricated scandalous experiences about the bank. The police assert that this was done with the intent to cause a breakdown of law and order and to bully, threaten, or harass the corporate image of Moniepoint MFB.
Legal Framework and Additional Charges
The offences are said to contravene Section 27(2)(b) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act 2015, as amended in 2024, and are punishable under Section 24(1)(b) of the same Act. In addition to the cyberstalking charges, the suspects are accused of fraudulently impersonating Brain Jotter, a well-known social media influencer. This impersonation was allegedly carried out to pervert or defeat the course of justice by using the same fraudulent platform to encourage online agitation.
Broader Implications
This case highlights the growing challenges of cybercrime in Nigeria, particularly involving monetised social media manipulation and coordinated digital harassment. The proceedings are expected to test the application of Nigeria's cybercrime legislation in addressing such sophisticated online schemes. Witnesses and evidence have been attached to the charge and will be presented during the trial, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities are treating this matter.
The charges detail specific counts, including conspiracy, creation of fraudulent platforms, and impersonation, all aimed at undermining the reputation and operations of Moniepoint MFB. As the case moves forward, it will be closely watched for its potential impact on legal precedents regarding cyber harassment and financial institution security in the digital age.
