By Chimezie Godfrey
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arraigned a Deputy Director of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Yusuf Abubakar Mustapha, over alleged forgery of an academic certificate.
The defendant was brought before the FCT High Court, Maitama, Abuja, on a three-count charge bordering on forgery and related offences.
The arraignment took place before Justice S.U. Bature sitting at Court 22.
According to the anti-graft agency, Mustapha allegedly forged a Bachelor’s degree certificate to secure employment in the public service.
ICPC investigators said the defendant claimed to have graduated from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1997 with a Second Class Lower degree.
The commission, however, said investigations revealed that the certificate was not issued by the university.
Further findings allegedly showed that the defendant actually graduated with a Third Class degree.
Officials said graduation records and academic transcripts obtained from ABU contradicted the certificate presented by the accused.
The anti-graft agency added that the forged certificate and statement of result were used to gain employment at NIPC in 2010.
The commission also alleged that the defendant made false statements during investigation.
Mustapha pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge.
Following his plea, the prosecution requested a trial date.
Defence counsel applied for bail and urged the court to grant it on liberal terms.
After hearing both sides, the court granted the defendant bail in the sum of ₦10 million.
The court also ordered that the surety must reside within its jurisdiction.
The case was adjourned to May 5, 2026, for trial.
The arraignment, observers say, reflects ICPC’s resolve to curb corruption in public service.
ICPC Drags NIPC Deputy Director to Court Over Alleged Fake Degree Certificate
