ABUJA/Nigeria: A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory sitting in Apo has ordered the remand of Negedu Patrick Siaka in correctional custody over allegations that he falsely presented himself as a public relations consultant and trainer to defraud members of the public.
Siaka, 66, was arraigned on Thursday before Bello Kawu on a three-count charge bordering on impersonation, fraud, and forgery following his arrest by police operatives in November 2024 in the Wuse area of Abuja. Authorities said his arrest was based on intelligence reports linking him to an alleged scheme in which he organised training programmes and collected fees while posing as an accredited trainer of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.
Investigators further alleged that the defendant was found in possession of forged letterheads and official insignia belonging to the institute, while subsequent checks confirmed that he was neither a registered member nor authorised to conduct such professional training.
During proceedings, prosecuting counsel Okokon Mbruk opposed an oral bail application, arguing that the offences were criminal in nature and required strict bail conditions, including the provision of a surety capable of depositing a financial guarantee. Defence counsel F M Isong, however, urged the court to grant bail, noting that his client, who resides in Lagos, had previously been granted police administrative bail and consistently honoured invitations despite reported health challenges.
Ruling on the preliminary application, Justice Kawu ordered that the defendant be remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre pending determination of his bail request, which was adjourned to February 25, 2026.
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, which regulates professional practice in the field, has repeatedly warned against impersonators whose activities it says undermine public trust and tarnish the reputation of the profession.21-02-2026
