The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismantled a visa fraud syndicate in Lagos, securing the conviction of Michael Kuyoro, a staff member of Ikeja Local Government, for forgery, conspiracy and abuse of office.
Justice O.A. Okunuga of the Ikeja High Court (Criminal Division) delivered the judgment on March 12, 2026, following a case triggered by a petition from the Italian High Commission over 22 visa applicants who submitted forged invitation and introduction letters.
Investigations revealed that Kuyoro used official Ikeja Local Government letterhead to falsely present the applicants as staff or affiliates, collecting ₦50,000 from an accomplice, Samuel Orebela, who is currently at large.
After entering a plea bargain, the defendant pleaded guilty to amended charges of conspiracy and making false statements under the Corrupt Practices Act, 2000.
The court sentenced him to:
Two years imprisonment on each count (to run concurrently)
Option of fines: ₦10,000 (Count One) and ₦100,000 (Count Two)
Three months community service under the Nigerian Correctional Service
₦1 million good behaviour bond
Permanent blacklisting, with his biometrics entered into the ICPC Criminal Offenders Database, barring him from future public service
Justice Okunuga warned that existing penalties for corruption are “outdated and insufficient,” calling for urgent legislative reforms to strengthen deterrence.
The ICPC says it remains committed to tackling corruption and urged citizens to report suspicious activities through its official channels.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
