One Martins Ugwu, who fraudulently impersonated his friend and used his certificate to secure a job at the Federal Ministry of Health has been convicted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The offense, which took place in 2006, involved Ugwu presenting a false identity to the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) in order to gain employment as a medical doctor.
In February 2016, the ICPC filed a seven-count charge against Ugwu before Justice Abubakar Idris Kutigi.
The charges, based on Section 25 (1)(a) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, accused him of making false statements to the FCSC to secure his position.
The offense is punishable under Section 25 (1)(b) of the same act.
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The ICPC revealed that Ugwu drew a total of N17.2 million in salaries and allowances over a ten-year period, from 2006 to 2016, while working as a doctor in the Ministry of Health with forged credentials.
He also used the fake documents to obtain a staff identity card, apply for leave, and even enroll in a postgraduate training program in Epidemiology.
During the sentencing phase at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Jabi, Abuja, ICPC Counsel Dr. Osuobeni Ekoi Akponimisingha argued for the restitution of all the funds Ugwu had unlawfully earned, citing Sections 319 and 321 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
He emphasised that the restitution was essential for justice.
Justice Kutigi, in his ruling, noted that the case highlighted the growing issue of unqualified individuals infiltrating the healthcare sector and emphasized that Ugwu’s sentencing would serve as a deterrent to others who might attempt similar fraudulent actions.
The judge sentenced Ugwu to six months in prison for each of the seven counts, to be served consecutively.
Additionally, he ordered the restitution of the N17.2 million paid to Ugwu during his tenure at the Ministry of Health, with a one-year additional sentence if the convict failed to comply with the restitution order.
This case underscores the importance of integrity in the public service and healthcare sector, sending a clear message that those who exploit false credentials will face severe legal consequences.
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