ICPC To Prosecute Kano-Based ‘Journalist’ For Alleged ₦14 Million Fraud

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has announced plans to prosecute a self-proclaimed journalist, Alkazim Kabir, also known as ‘Abbati Kabiru Abuwa’, over alleged involvement in multiple fraudulent activities amounting to about ₦14 million.

The ICPC’s spokesperson, Demola Bakare, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, noting that the decision followed several petitions accusing Kabir of persistent acts of fraud, false representation, and impersonation of senior government officials.

According to Bakare, investigations revealed that the suspect had impersonated several public figures, including aides to the President, the Vice President, and members of the National Assembly, to defraud unsuspecting victims across the country.

Naija News understands that in one instance, Kabir allegedly obtained $3,300 and 1,620 Saudi Riyals from two victims while posing as an aide to the President and Vice President.

Bakare said, “The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission is set to prosecute one Mr. Alkazim Kabir, also known as ‘Abbati Kabiru Abuwa,’ a self-acclaimed journalist based in Kano, over alleged involvement in multiple fraudulent activities amounting to about ₦14m.

“The decision to charge Mr. Kabir followed a series of petitions received by the Commission, accusing him of persistent acts of fraud, false representation, and impersonation of public officials.”

The ICPC spokesperson further revealed that the suspect often exploited religious travels, particularly Hajj and Umrah, to defraud individuals.

Bakare explained that during one of such trips to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Kabir allegedly borrowed 11,000 Saudi Riyals from a fellow traveller and later sent a forged bank receipt as proof of repayment.

In another case, he reportedly issued a fake transfer receipt of ₦3.2 million to a travel agent who had made flight, hotel, and train bookings on his behalf.

“Further findings indicated that Mr Kabir specialised in obtaining money and goods under false pretences, often exploiting opportunities related to international religious travels,” Bakare added.

Bakare confirmed that the ICPC had filed charges against the suspect, and he would be arraigned before a competent court once the case is formally assigned.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting individuals involved in impersonation and fraud, particularly those who exploit religion and public trust for personal gain.

Source: Naijanews