A judge at the Federal Capital Territory High Court has ordered the remand of a 66-year-old man, Negedu Patrick Siaka, over allegations that he falsely presented himself as a professional public relations consultant. He was arraigned on charges linked to impersonation, fraud, and forgery after his arrest in the Wuse district of Abuja. Authorities say his detention will continue pending a ruling on his bail request.

Investigators claim Siaka organised training sessions where he allegedly collected money from participants while posing as a certified trainer affiliated with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations. Officers also reportedly found letterheads and materials bearing the institute’s insignia in his possession. Officials insist he is neither registered with the institute nor authorised to run such programmes.

During proceedings, the prosecution opposed granting him bail immediately, arguing that the charges are serious and require strict conditions. Defence counsel, however, told the court that the defendant had previously cooperated with police and honoured invitations despite health concerns. The judge adjourned the matter for a formal decision.

Pending that ruling, the court directed that the suspect be held at the Kuje Correctional Centre until February 25, 2026. The public relations institute has repeatedly warned about impersonators, saying such acts damage its reputation and mislead members of the public seeking professional training.