An investigation by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) has uncovered how two well-connected Nigerians allegedly posed as a Dubai prince and his financial manager to defraud a Romanian businesswoman of more than $2.5 million.
According to the investigation, Henry Nzube Ikeji, a 31-year-old Nigerian and founder of the Nzube Ikeji Foundation, allegedly masqueraded as a Dubai prince, while Dr. Martins Abhulimhen, 60, founder of the Jose Foundation, reportedly played the role of the prince’s financial manager.
OCCRP revealed that Ikeji, posing as royalty, first contacted the victim on LinkedIn, expressing interest in investing in humanitarian projects in Romania. The conversation reportedly evolved into an online romantic relationship, with the fake prince eventually proposing marriage.
The victim, identified by OCCRP only as Laura, was allegedly convinced to pay large sums of money for what Ikeji claimed were traditional marriage rites required by his “royal custom.”
As part of the scheme, Ikeji allegedly directed Laura to meet his supposed financial manager in London. Dr. Abhulimhen reportedly presented himself as Dr. Mathew Croos, further reinforcing the elaborate deception.
Over a period of nearly two years, Laura reportedly wired more than $2.5 million to accounts linked to the suspects. Investigators said the London Metropolitan Police later traced the funds to Abhulimhen’s bank accounts in the United Kingdom and Ikeji’s accounts in Nigeria.
The investigation further revealed that both men are highly connected and have been photographed with prominent figures in Nigeria and abroad, including Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and his wife, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
They were also reported to have mingled with influential socialites and businessmen such as Cubana Chief Priest, Obi Cubana, Arthur Eze, and other notable Nigerians.
OCCRP noted that the suspects allegedly used their public image, philanthropic foundations and high-profile connections to build credibility and disarm suspicion.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the individuals named in the investigation, while it remains unclear if Nigerian law enforcement agencies have commenced local prosecutions.
Source; PM News