The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over $132,362.43 and N78,566,324.81 to victims of fraud from the United States, Spain, and Switzerland, In a move to combat financial crimes and restore Nigeria’s global image.
The restitution, carried out at the EFCC’s headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, was presided over by the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede. He emphasized the federal government’s unwavering commitment to fighting corruption and financial crimes.
“This event is a demonstration of the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the fight against corruption and financial crimes,” Olukoyede stated. “We are here to prove to the world that Nigeria is not a safe haven for fraudsters. We don’t just recover stolen assets; we ensure victims are restituted.”
In addition to the cash restitution, the EFCC said it also handed over vehicles, real estate, and cryptocurrency recovered from fraudsters to the respective embassies for onward transmission to the victims.
“In Spain, the Acting Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, Maria Higon Velasco, received $1,300 and confirmation of N30 million that had been transferred to the Spanish Embassy for the benefit of victim Maria Del Rosario San Jose.
“For Switzerland, Florent Geel, the Senior Political Officer at the Swiss Embassy, collected $100,011.43 on behalf of Chantai Helene Lavancy”, the statement reads.
The Commission also noted that in the United States, Charles Smith, the Legal Attaché of the FBI at the U.S. Embassy, received several restitutions. He collected $7,344, N7,963,483.35, and Bitcoin valued at $4,470 for victim Maria Jesus Brockell. Additionally, he was handed over two luxury vehicles — a Mercedes Benz E550 4Matic and a Mercedes Benz C450 AMG — along with a residential bungalow located in Kaduna State.
According to EFCC, Smith also received $7,527 for victim Michael Smith, $11,710 for Cheryle Williams, and N32,639,358.11 for Marva Marrow.
In her remarks, Velasco expressed Spain’s appreciation, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in fighting financial crimes.
“This is a sign of the collaboration between Nigeria and Spain, and we are very grateful,” Velasco said.
Smith lauded the EFCC for its efforts, stating, “Many may not understand the impact this has on the victims. It gives them closure and makes them feel whole again. The EFCC isn’t just a Nigerian agency; it’s a global contender in the fight against financial crimes.”
Geel also praised Nigeria’s commitment to combating fraud, saying, “This restitution shows the integrity and professionalism of the EFCC. Switzerland remains committed to working with Nigeria to make the digital world safer.”
Umar Ahmed , Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, , described the restitution as an unprecedented move that would strengthen Nigeria’s global credibility.
“This development will greatly enhance Nigeria’s reputation internationally and restore investor confidence in our economy,” Ahmed said.
He further commended President Tinubu’s support for the EFCC’s anti-corruption mandate.
English (US) ·