The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has announced plans to prosecute a self-acclaimed journalist from Kano, Alkazim Kabir, for allegedly defrauding several individuals of about N14 million through multiple fraudulent schemes.
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According to a statement released on Wednesday by the ICPC spokesperson, Demola Bakare, the decision to press charges followed numerous petitions accusing Kabir who also goes by the name Abbati Kabiru Abuwa of persistent fraud, impersonation, and false representation.
The Commission said its investigation revealed that Kabir had impersonated top government officials, including aides to the President, Vice President, and members of the National Assembly, to deceive unsuspecting victims into parting with their money.
Among the alleged fraudulent acts, Kabir was said to have obtained $3,300 and 1,620 Saudi Riyals from two victims by posing as a senior government aide involved in religious travel arrangements. He also reportedly borrowed 11,000 Saudi Riyals from a fellow traveler during a pilgrimage in Mecca and later sent a forged bank receipt to claim repayment.
In another incident, Kabir allegedly issued a fake transfer receipt of N3.2 million to a travel agent for flight, hotel, and train bookings.
The ICPC stated that charges have already been filed against Kabir, and he will be arraigned before a competent court once the case is formally assigned.