By Lizzy Chirkpi
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested a Nigerian-American, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, in connection with an alleged cross-border vehicle import fraud involving more than $320,000 (approximately ₦434.88 million).
Adams, who holds dual Nigerian and United States citizenship, is currently under investigation for alleged criminal breach of trust and obtaining money under false pretences, according to the anti-graft agency.
The EFCC said preliminary findings indicate that the suspect is allegedly linked to a United States-based syndicate accused of defrauding unsuspecting Nigerians through fraudulent luxury vehicle importation schemes.
According to investigators, Adams allegedly advertised and circulated photographs of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, presenting himself as a vehicle importer capable of purchasing and shipping the luxury SUV from the United States to buyers in Nigeria.
The Commission alleged that two separate victims paid a combined total of $320,000 for the same vehicle.
One of the complainants, Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike, reportedly paid $145,000 through an intermediary for the vehicle, while another victim, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly transferred $175,000 for the same luxury automobile.
Further investigations by the EFCC reportedly uncovered a previous criminal record linked to Adams in the United States, allegedly involving the unlawful acquisition of vehicles.
Confirming the arrest, the Commission stated: “The suspect was arrested by operatives of the EFCC’s Ilorin Zonal Directorate upon his return to Nigeria.”
The agency added that investigations are ongoing and assured that the suspect would face prosecution upon the conclusion of its inquiry.
“Investigations are ongoing, and the suspect will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of the investigation,” the EFCC said.
The arrest underscores the EFCC’s continued efforts to combat transnational fraud and protect Nigerians from sophisticated scams involving luxury vehicle imports and other cross-border transactions.