The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Victor Ekpong Thompson before the Federal High Court sitting in Uyo over the alleged defrauding of several American citizens of $525,276.

Thompson was docked on Thursday, January 29, 2026, before Maureen Adaobi, facing an eight-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence.

According to the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the EFCC, the defendant allegedly obtained the funds from his victims under the guise of facilitating investments in mineral resource mining and deep sea port development.

Those allegedly defrauded include American nationals Tammy Jensen, Peter Jensen, Kenneth Blad, and other unsuspecting investors.

One of the charges read in court stated that Thompson, between April 2024 and December 2024, within the jurisdiction of the court, fraudulently obtained $213,350 from the victims under false pretences, thereby violating provisions of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.

The charge alleged that the defendant acted “with intent to defraud” by misrepresenting the existence and viability of the purported investment ventures.

When the charges were read to him, Thompson pleaded not guilty to all counts.

Following his plea, the prosecution counsel, Joshua Abolarin, urged the court to fix a trial date and remand the defendant in a correctional facility pending the determination of the case.

However, defence counsel, Savn Daniel, made an oral application for bail, which was opposed by the prosecution.

After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Adaobi adjourned the matter to March 19, 2026, for ruling on the bail application and commencement of trial.

Pending the court’s decision, the judge ordered that Thompson be remanded at the EFCC detention facility in Uyo.

The EFCC said the arraignment underscores its continued resolve to combat cross-border financial crimes and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s financial system.

Source; PM News