The Federal High Court sitting in Uyo has convicted and sentenced one Elijah Okwa Etenrulimre to three months’ imprisonment.
The court, presided over by Justice Maurine Adaobi, sentenced the accused for offences bordering on criminal impersonation online.
A statement by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Dele Oyewale, indicated that Etenrulimre was arraigned by the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the commission on a one-count charge bordering on his fraudulent internet activities.
The statement made available to newsmen in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, observed that Elijah Okwa Etenrulimre (aka Kaley Cuoco), sometime in 2024, within the jurisdiction of the court, did fraudulently present himself as Kaley Cuoco on social media with the intent to gain advantage for himself.
The statement noted that the offence contravenes section 22(2)(b)(i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024, and punishable under the same section.
Etenrulimre pleaded guilty to the charge against him, upon which prosecution counsel Enobong Ubokudom urged the court to convict and sentence him in accordance with the law.
However, defence counsel Samson Awuje pleaded for leniency, asking the court to temper justice with mercy, citing the defendant’s remorse and promise not to reoffend.
After hearing both sides, Justice Adaobi convicted and sentenced Etenrulimre to three months’ imprisonment, effective from the date of his arrest and detention.
Alternatively, the court allowed him the option to pay a fine of N200,000.
