By Rismaadarvoice 19 November
Justice Ismail Ijelu of the Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, convicted and sentenced Osaibovo Charles to a total of 50 years’ imprisonment for offences bordering on conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence, stealing, possession of fraudulent documents, and money laundering.
Charles was arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Directorate I of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a six-count charge after he fraudulently obtained £15,000 from a United Kingdom–based victim, Miss Shenika Garati, by impersonating popular Nigerian actor Fredrick Leonard and claiming the money was needed for a movie production in Nigeria.
One of the counts reads: “Charles Osaigbovo and Charles Evans Osaigbovo (deceased), in June 2022, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, conspired to obtain the sum of £38,000 by false pretence from Miss Shenika Garati.”
Another count states: “Osaibovo Charles, sometime between February and August 2022, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, transferred the aggregate sum of £15,000 derived directly from your illegal activity by concealing the illegal origin of the same.”
Charles pleaded not guilty, prompting a full trial. The prosecution led by T.J. Banjo called two witnesses and tendered several documents, while the defence called one witness.
Delivering judgment, Justice Ijelu ruled that the EFCC had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
“Having reviewed the evidence, the court is satisfied that the prosecution has proved the case beyond reasonable doubt. The defendant is found guilty as charged,” the judge held.
Breakdown of Sentencing
•Conspiracy to obtain money by false pretence – 14 years
•Obtaining money by false pretence – 14 years
•Stealing – 5 years
•Possession of fraudulent documents – 14 years
•Money laundering – 3 years
All sentences were without an option of fine.
Charles was, however, discharged and acquitted on the count of retention of proceeds of crime.
Although the sentences amount to 50 years, they are to run concurrently.
The court also ordered restitution of £15,000 to the victim, Miss Shenika Garati.
