A Nigerian gang of four has been sentenced to a combined total of 13 years in prison for creating and distributing over 2,000 fraudulent marriage certificates, enabling Nigerian citizens to illegally reside in the UK. The convicted individuals, Abraham Alade Olarotimi Onifade, Abayomi Aderinsoye Shodipo, Nosimot Mojisola Gbadamosi, and Adekunle Kabir, were found guilty of various crimes, including conspiracy to facilitate illegal entry, fraud, and possession of false documents.
The gang’s scheme involved creating and providing false Nigerian Customary Marriage Certificates and other fraudulent documentation to support EU Settlement Scheme applications for Nigerian nationals. This allowed them to illegally remain in the UK. The Home Office, in collaboration with its international operations in Lagos, Nigeria, uncovered the fraudulent activity and brought the perpetrators to justice.
The sentences ranged from nine months to six years, reflecting the severity of the crimes. Home Office chief immigration officer Paul Moran hailed the convictions as a significant victory, warning that gangs exploiting vulnerable individuals for financial gain will be brought to justice. Moran emphasized the importance of securing borders and clamping down on gangs preying on vulnerable people to make money.
The convictions and sentences serve as a warning to other gangs engaging in similar activities. The Home Office will continue to work tirelessly to secure borders and bring those who exploit vulnerable individuals to justice.
