Man Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Producing $2 Million in Counterfeit Currency  

The Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, has sentenced Kehinde Amaka, also known as Yomade Ademisoye Ojomo, to one year in prison for possessing counterfeit $2,028,400 in $100 bills. Justice Isa Dashen delivered the judgment on November 12, 2024.

The conviction followed charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under Sections 2 and 5(1)(b) of the Counterfeit Currency (Special Provisions) Act, 2004. According to the EFCC, Amaka unlawfully possessed chemical dye materials and instruments used to manufacture counterfeit U.S. dollars.

The prosecution, led by counsel Hadiza Afebua, outlined the charges, stating:

1. Possession of Counterfeit Currency: Amaka was found with $2,028,400 in counterfeit $100 bills on May 15, 2024, in Lokoja, a violation of Section 5(1)(b) of the Counterfeit Currency Act.

2. Production Materials: He was also in possession of chemical dye and other tools for producing counterfeit currency, contrary to Section 2 of the same Act.

The case was first reported to the EFCC by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on May 16, 2024. The EFCC’s First Prosecution Witness (PW1), Alonge Opeyemi Joseph, testified that the agency received a written petition along with the defendant and evidence, including the counterfeit notes.

PW1 stated that the counterfeit currency was counted in the presence of the defendant, and his statement was recorded voluntarily under caution.

After reviewing the evidence and the charges, Justice Isa Dashen convicted Amaka and sentenced him to one year in prison. The case highlights ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to combat financial crimes and protect the country’s economic integrity.