EFCC Arraigns Man in Uyo Over Alleged $525,276 Fraud Targeting American Investors

Court remands suspect as judge fixes date to rule on bail application

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Victor Ekpong Thompson before the Federal High Court in Uyo over allegations that he defrauded American investors of $525,276 through false investment promises.

Thompson is facing an eight-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretences, contrary to the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.

According to the EFCC, the defendant allegedly collected funds from foreign investors under the guise of facilitating investments in mineral resources and deep-sea port projects in Nigeria. The complainants named in the charge include Tammy Jensen, Kenneth Blad, Peter Jensen, and others.

One of the counts states that between April and December 2024, Thompson allegedly obtained $213,350 from the investors through deceptive claims.

When the charges were read in court, Thompson pleaded not guilty.

Bail Request Opposed by Prosecution

During the proceedings, EFCC counsel Joshua Abolarin urged the court to remand the defendant in custody pending trial. However, defence counsel Savn Daniel applied for bail, a request strongly opposed by the prosecution.

Justice Maureen Adaobi adjourned the case to March 19, 2026 for a ruling on the bail application and the commencement of trial.

The judge ordered that Thompson be remanded at the EFCC detention facility in Uyo until further notice.