By John Umeh
In a development that has shocked both the art and security communities, Nigerian-British art dealer Ochuko Ojiri has pleaded guilty to eight charges related to the financing of terrorist activities.
The plea was entered during a hearing at the Central Criminal Court in London, where prosecutors outlined Ojiri’s involvement in transferring funds linked to extremist groups operating abroad. According to investigators, the transactions were deliberately disguised through a network of personal and business accounts tied to his international art dealings.
Ojiri, previously known for his work promoting African and diasporic art, is accused of using his gallery and art trade connections as a cover for covert financial operations that supported extremist networks. Authorities say the investigation uncovered a pattern of coordinated money transfers and communications with individuals flagged by international counterterrorism agencies.
“This case demonstrates the increasingly complex ways in which terrorism can be funded,” said a spokesperson for the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service. “Even cultural or commercial enterprises can be exploited to channel support for violent extremism.”
Ojiri faces a potential multi-year prison sentence under the UK’s Terrorism Act. Sentencing is scheduled for next month, and further investigations are ongoing to determine whether additional accomplices or international links exist.
The case has raised renewed concerns about the potential misuse of legitimate industries for illicit purposes, and authorities are urging increased scrutiny in sectors that may be vulnerable to financial exploitation.
