The defendant was arrested with the sum of $30,000, which he failed to declare, Paul stressed, highlighting that “his (defendant’s) statement was recorded under caution and was served with the bail conditions.”
NAIRAMETRICS
Justice Deinde I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, sentenced Okunfulure Olusola Steve to three months in prison for failing to declare $30,000 while departing from Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stated that the act contravened money laundering laws. Steve, a Delta Airlines passenger en route to Atlanta, had initially declared only Naira in his possession. However, customs officials discovered $30,000 on him during a search.
“The defendant was arrested with the sum of $30,000, which he failed to declare,” EFCC operative Felicia Paul testified in court.
Upon arraignment, Steve pleaded guilty. The prosecution presented evidence, including a handing-over note from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the seized cash. Justice Dipeolu ruled, “I have read the exhibits, the statement of the defendant, and I found him guilty. He is accordingly convicted as charged.”
The judge sentenced Steve to three months in prison, effective from March 28, 2025, and ordered the forfeiture of $20,000 to the Federal Government.