Court Sentences Flavour’s Impersonator to Two Years in Prison for Defrauding U.S. Woman
A Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced Courage Ipaka, who impersonated Nigerian singer Flavour, to two years in prison for defrauding a U.S. citizen of $53,000.
Ipaka, who falsely assumed the identity of the popular artist, deceived Yvelte M. Thompson, a resident of the United States, by promising to organize music shows in America. The funds were transferred to him through Bitcoin wallets, which he later converted to Naira via his Access Bank account.
The investigation, led by Azibagiri Dan Ekpar of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), revealed that Ipaka, based in Benin City, had carried out the scam in 2021. The case came to light after a petition was filed by Eyitayo Tolulope Abiodun on behalf of the victim.
During the probe, Flavour was cleared of any involvement, with Ipaka admitting to the fraudulent activities. The court ordered the forfeiture of N7.9 million, recovered from the defendant, to be returned to the victim. Additionally, Ipaka was given an option to pay a fine of N2 million in lieu of serving the full prison term.
