A Nigerian-American man, Adegoke Oluwatobi Adams, has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged cross-border vehicle import scam worth more than $320,000 (approximately ₦434.88 million).
According to the EFCC’s Ilorin Zonal Directorate, Adams, who holds dual Nigerian and U.S. citizenship, was taken into custody for investigation on charges of criminal breach of trust and obtaining money by false pretence.
The anti-graft agency stated that preliminary investigations identified Adams as a member of a U.S.-based syndicate that targets unsuspecting Nigerians by promising to purchase and import vehicles from the United States on their behalf.
While residing in the U.S., Adams allegedly advertised and circulated images of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to potential buyers in Nigeria, assuring them he would buy and ship the luxury vehicle.
Investigators revealed that two victims paid a combined $320,000 (over ₦434.88 million) for the promised vehicle. One victim, Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike, transferred $145,000 through an intermediary, while another, Godson Azubuike Amans, paid $175,000 for the same car.
Further checks uncovered that Adams has a prior criminal record in the United States, reportedly connected to illegal vehicle acquisition. He was arrested by EFCC officials upon returning to Nigeria. The agency says Adams will be charged in court once investigations are complete.
