The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Thursday, handed over N96.5 million to victims of a Ponzi scheme in Enugu.
The Commission acted on a petition dated September 30, 2024, submitted by Chijioke Ngwu and others against Oyubu Clement Akpojewve, also known as Justice Nonso Chima, Managing Director of Leverage Index Limited.
According to EFCC Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the petitioners alleged that Akpojewve lured them into investing in a fraudulent forex trading scheme through two packages: the Monthly Plan and the Live Trading option.
Under the Monthly Plan, investors were required to deposit a minimum of N2.5 million, with a promised monthly return of N200,000 or 8 percent, while the capital was retained for further trading. The Live Trading option involved same-day forex trading with a promised 10 percent profit paid the following day.
After collecting the funds, Akpojewve reportedly began making excuses, citing disagreements with trading partners, before shutting down his office and disappearing.
EFCC investigations revealed that Akpojewve and his associates defrauded unsuspecting victims under the guise of forex investments and laundered the proceeds through multiple bank accounts to conceal the funds’ destinations.
While handing over the recovered funds, EFCC Executive Chairman Ola Olukoyede, represented by Enugu Zonal Director, CE Daniel Isei, reiterated the Commission’s resolve to deny fraudsters the proceeds of crime and ensure restitution to victims. He also warned the public to be vigilant and wary of business offers that seem too good to be true.
Beneficiary Ukwu Ernest Ikechukwu, who received N19.9 million, commended the EFCC for its professionalism and integrity, noting that no inducement was demanded throughout the process. Another recipient, Ikechukwu Ogbunubi, who received N10 million, expressed gratitude for the Commission’s persistence and efficiency.
Other beneficiaries include Temple Lewis Maduka (N7.5 million), Ngwu A. (N19.4 million), Alphonsus Umeh (N7 million), among others.
- Media Report