ICPC Convicts Lagos Official in Visa Fraud Scheme

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) dismantled a visa mill syndicate in Lagos State, resulting in the conviction of Michael Kuyoro, a staff member of the Ikeja Local Government. Kuyoro was involved in a visa fraud scheme that included forgery and conspiracy.

The case originated from a petition submitted to the Italian High Commission, which raised concerns about 22 Nigerian visa applications that presented forged invitation letters. Investigations revealed that Kuyoro abused his official position to generate false documents on the Ikeja Local Government letterhead.

He received N50,000 from accomplice Samuel Orebela, who facilitated the fraudulent scheme. Kuyoro was arraigned on four counts but later entered a plea bargain, leading to the amendment of charges to two counts of conspiracy and giving false statements.

On March 12, 2026, Justice O. Okunuga sentenced him to two years in prison, with an option of a fine and community service, and ordered a review of the penalties under the corrupt practices act.