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EFCC Arrest Fake Nigerian Senator for €5.7 million internet fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a fake Nigerian senator, Ifechukwu Makwe, over alleged €5.7 million internet fraud.
The suspect, who bears many aliases, Fahad Makwe, Senator Tompolo, Tom Makwe, and Dr Bran, defrauded a Spaniard of €5.7 million.
While speaking with newsmen, EFCC spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, said in a statement on Monday that Mr Makwe was arrested in the Guzape area of Abuja following credible intelligence about his internet-related fraud activities.
“Upon arrest, it was discovered that the suspect, bearing many aliases (Fahad Makwe, Senator Tompolo, Tom Makwe, Dr Bran), defrauded a Spaniard of €5.7 million,” said the EFCC. “Makwe allegedly claimed to be a U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent and diplomatic solicitor, succeeded in defrauding his victim using fake identities.”
The anti-graft commission added, “The suspect allegedly started defrauding the victim in 2013 when he first met her on social media.”
EFCC said the arrested fake senator would be charged in court as soon as investigations are concluded.
In other news, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has urged President Bola Tinubu to appoint a southerner as the next Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
This is contained in a statement signed by the National Coordinator of HURIWA, Mr Emmanuel Onwubiko, and made available to newsmen in Owerri, on Monday.
HURIWA expressed concern over the consistent appointment of individuals from the Northern part of Nigeria as EFCC Chairmen since the establishment of the commission.
This trend, the organisation noted, had led to the perception that the position is micro-zoned to the North, depriving equally competent individuals of the South of the opportunity to contribute to the fight against corruption.
The association described Tinubu as a prominent leader known for his commitment to fairness and justice and equity and urged him to exhibit the same by appointing a candidate from the South as the next EFCC Chairman.
“Such a decision would send a powerful message of unity and inclusivity, fostering a harmonious and balanced Nigeria.
“We firmly believe that a candidate from the southern region should be appointed as the next EFCC Chairman to ensure a fair distribution of power and showcase the competence of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
“It is essential to rectify the existing regional imbalance within the EFCC by appointing a candidate from the South as the next chairman, to address the perception of bias and create a more balanced representation within the institution.