The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arraigned two officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), over alleged extortion of motorists and gratification.
In a 2-count charge brought before Honourable Justice H. Aprioku of the Rivers State High Court 11 sitting in Port Harcourt, ICPC told the court how the duo, John Asegu and Otom Asueni, forcefully collected various sums of money totaling N3,500 from motorists as a “fee“ to allow the motorists pass their checkpoint along Port Harcourt-Ahoada expressway, even without being charged for any traffic offence.
TheFact Nigeria, gathered that the arrest of the officials was the result of a sting operation mounted by the Commission following credible intelligence received.
The Commission also accused the defendants of using their position as public officers to confer undue advantage upon themselves by soliciting for, and accepting gratification.
ICPC, in a Charge numbered PHC/3905ICPC/19, averred that the duo’s actions were contrary to and punishable under sections 8, 19, and 26 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, and if found guilty, they shall, on conviction, be liable to imprisonment for seven years without option of fine.
The accused persons pleaded not guilty to the 2-count charge and were granted bail by the trial judge. However, due to their inability to meet the bail conditions, they are remanded in the custody of the Correctional Service.
The case was subsequently adjourned to the 26th of March, 2021 for commencement of trial.
