The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has refunded a total of N96.5 million to several victims swindled by a forex-based Ponzi scheme operated in Enugu State.
The refund was made at the EFCC’s Enugu Zonal Command, following months of investigation into petitions filed against one Oyubu Akpojewve, also known as Justice Nonso Chima, the Managing Director of Leverage Index Limited.
In a statement on Friday, EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said the refund aligns with the commission’s renewed drive to ensure restitution for victims of financial crimes.
According to the petition dated September 30, 2024, Akpojewve allegedly marketed fraudulent investment packages to unsuspecting investors, promising unrealistic returns through two channels – a so-called Monthly Plan and Live Trading Plan.
Under the Monthly Plan, investors were required to deposit a minimum of N2.5 million, with a promise of N200,000 monthly profit. In the Live Trading option, investors were allegedly assured 10 per cent returns within 24 hours.
The EFCC said after collecting the funds, Akpojewve became evasive, shut down his office and cut off communication with the investors.
“Operatives swung into action immediately,” Oyewale said. “Findings revealed that the suspect conspired with others to defraud victims of their hard-earned money under the guise of forex trading.”
While handing over bank drafts to the victims, EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, represented by the Enugu Zonal Director, Daniel Isei, warned Nigerians to be wary of suspicious investment schemes.
“Some offers look too good to be real,” he said. “We must be more circumspect. Do not be in a hurry to double your money overnight. Let this be a lesson, and let us also educate our friends and family.”
Olukoyede reiterated the commission’s commitment to recovering proceeds of crime and returning them to rightful owners.
“EFCC will continue to ensure fraudsters are denied the benefits of their actions, and victims get back their funds and properties,” he said.
Some of the refunded victims expressed relief after receiving their drafts.
Ukwu Ernest Ikechukwu, who received N19.9 million, praised the EFCC for what he described as “professional and transparent work.”
Another victim, Ikechukwu Ogbunubi, who got N10 million, said the recovery restored his confidence in law enforcement.
Others who received refunds include Temple Lewis Maduka (N7.5 million), Ngwu A (N19.4 million), and Alphonsus Umeh (N7 million).
The suspect and his alleged accomplices are expected to face prosecution upon completion of investigations.
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