Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ilorin Zonal Directorate, have arrested Nigerian-American Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams for an alleged cross-border vehicle fraud worth over $320,000, about ₦434.88 million.

The Commission said Adams, who holds Nigerian and U.S. citizenship, is being investigated for criminal breach of trust and obtaining money under false pretences. 

According to EFCC preliminary findings, the suspect is believed to be part of a U.S.-based syndicate that targets Nigerians by offering to buy and ship vehicles from America. Adams allegedly circulated images of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to potential buyers in Nigeria and promised to import the vehicle for them.

Investigators said two victims paid a total of $320,000 for the same car. One victim, Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike, reportedly sent $145,000 through a middleman, while another, Godson Azubuike Amans, allegedly paid $175,000.

The EFCC added that checks revealed Adams had a previous criminal record in the United States related to unlawful vehicle acquisition. He was arrested by Ilorin Zonal Directorate operatives after returning to Nigeria.

The Commission stated that investigations are still in progress and that Adams will be charged in court once completed.

Source: EFCC Ilorin Zonal Directorate