The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has returned N96.5 million to several victims of a forex-related Ponzi scheme in Enugu State.
The agency’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, announced this in a statement on Friday in Abuja, noting that the move reflects the EFCC’s commitment to combating economic crimes and ensuring justice and restitution for defrauded citizens.
According to the EFCC, a petition dated September 30, 2024, was filed by Chijioke Ngwu and others against Oyubu Akpojewve, also known as Justice Nonso Chima, the Managing Director of Leverage Index Limited.
The petitioners accused Akpojewve of enticing them to invest millions of naira in two supposed investment formats:
1. Monthly Plan:
Investors were required to pay a minimum of N2.5 million into a UBA account.
The company promised N200,000 monthly profit, representing 8% of the investment.
Investors also had the option to roll over their capital for continuous monthly trading.
2. Live Trading Plan:
Investors could transfer any amount for a live forex trading session.
The company promised 10% profit to be returned the following day.
However, after collecting funds, Akpojewve allegedly began making excuses, citing disagreements with trading partners. Soon after, he reportedly shut down his office and became unreachable.
EFCC investigations revealed that he conspired with others to defraud unsuspecting victims of their money.
During the handover ceremony, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukayode, represented by Daniel Isei, the Enugu Zonal Director, emphasized the agency’s commitment to stripping fraudsters of criminal proceeds and restoring victims’ lost funds.
Olukayode also urged Nigerians to be more vigilant when approached with investment proposals:
> “Some offers look too good to be true. We must avoid the temptation to double our money overnight. Let this be a lesson to remain vigilant and protect ourselves and our loved ones.”
Several victims received their refunds, including:
Ukwu Ernest Ikechukwu – N19.9 million
Ikechukwu Ogbunubi – N10 million
Temple Lewis Maduka – N7.5 million
Ngwu A – N19.4 million
Alphonsus Umeh – N7 million
The beneficiaries praised the EFCC for its professionalism and persistence in recovering their funds.
