Lagos Judge Holds Mother Accountable for Son's Online Crimes

Lagos Court Takes Unusual Step, Summons Mother Over Son's Cybercrime

“I hereby order his mother, Martha Ude, of Achaputa...”

Chinonso Udeh, 19, faces cybercrime charges for impersonating Hamadam Fazza on Instagram. Mother ordered to appear in court November 1.
 

The court proceeded to inquire about Udeh's background. He revealed that he was an apprentice painter and lived with a church member.

When questioned about his family, Udeh disclosed that he originated from Onitsha, Anambra State, and his mother, Marther Ude, resided in the Achaputa area.

Justice Faji then asked who accompanied Udeh to court. Udeh gestured to a young man with braided hair, who introduced himself as a friend. The young man clarified that he was not related to Udeh but had attended the session to offer support since Udeh had no family members present.

In an unexpected move, Justice Faji subsequently ordered Udeh's mother, Marther Ude, to appear in court on November 1.

Chinonso Udeh has been instructed by Justice Ayokunle Faji to be provided with food by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) during his remand. Udeh and his mother, Marther Ude, have also been directed to bring identification documents to the next hearing.

The EFCC alleged that Udeh impersonated a white man named Hamadam Fazza on Instagram between January 27 and April 13, 2024, to obtain financial benefits. This alleged offense is said to contravene Section 22(3) of the Cybercrime Prohibition Act, 2015.

Justice Faji, surprised by the lack of family presence and support, questioned the situation, saying, “At 19, you are here without your parents, but only your friend with plaited hair. So, should I think this defendant is responsible? So, should this be how a teenager is allowed to roam freely?” he queried.

The judge directed Udeh to guarantee his mother's presence in court at the next hearing, warning of imprisonment if she fails to appear.

Justice Faji said, “I hereby order his mother, Martha Ude, of Achaputa Layout, Anambra State, to be in court on November 1, 2024, for further proceedings.”

Chinonso Udeh, a 19-year-old painter, has been instructed by Justice Ayokunle Faji to be provided with food by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) during his reman. Udeh and his mother, Marther Ude, have also been directed to bring identification documents to the next hearing.

The EFCC alleged that Udeh impersonated a white man named Hamadam Fazza on Instagram between January 27 and April 13, 2024, to obtain financial benefits. This alleged offense is said to contravene Section 22(3) of the Cybercrime Prohibition Act, 2015.

Justice Faji adjourned the case until November 1, 2024, for further proceedings.