From Premium Times Nigeria · Emmanuel Agbo · · 1m 50s
EFCC Forfeits $163,592 from US Fraud
EFCC secures final forfeiture of $163,592 from US fraud scheme involving Nigerian businessman Akpasi Oziegbe.
In brief
EFCC secures final forfeiture of $163,592 from US fraud scheme involving Nigerian businessman Akpasi Oziegbe. EFCC has forfeited $163,592 obtained through a US fraud scheme where Akpasi Oziegbe impersonated Edward Campbell to receive payment from a US law firm. Originally reported by Premium Times Nigeria.
EFCC Action
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) secured final forfeiture of $163,592 from US fraud scheme.
Fraud Scheme Details
Akpasi Oziegbe impersonated Edward Campbell to receive payment from US law firm Steven J. Mandel & Co.
Fraud Timeline
Oziegbe obtained $165,157 from US company on 27 June 2022, transferred $163,592 on 20 July 2022.
Fraud Detection
JPMorgan Chase Bank notified lawyers of altered cheque on 21 July 2022, UBA flagged transaction as suspicious.
Legal Process
EFCC obtained court order freezing account on 9 September 2024, final forfeiture order granted 15 August 2025.
Forfeiture Outcome
Money forfeited to Steven J. Mandel & Co through Federal Government of Nigeria.
Investigation Background
EFCC began investigation in May 2024 after receiving petition from GAIA & Montgomery Legal.
Fraud Claim
Oziegbe claimed payment for materials supplied to US but failed to provide supporting documents.
Legal Proceedings
Prosecution lawyer Ekele Iheanacho led EFCC's legal team in securing final forfeiture order.
Fraud Impact
US law firm confirmed fraud after cheque was altered and reported to authorities.
Banking Response
UBA placed lien on funds after confirming transaction was fraudulent.
Forfeiture Process
EFCC traced funds to Oziegbe's domiciliary account at UBA under name Micoz Bluelink Enterprise.
Court Order
Trial judge M. S. Liman granted forfeiture order on Friday after EFCC application.
Final Outcome
EFCC forfeited $163,592 to Steven J. Mandel & Co through Federal Government of Nigeria.
What matters most
EFCC has forfeited $163,592 obtained through a US fraud scheme where Akpasi Oziegbe impersonated Edward Campbell to receive payment from a US law firm.
