A Nigerian woman, Catherine Ijeoma Ugwu, has been dragged before the Borno State High Court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, over allegations of fraud amounting to N6.8 million. The case, which has sparked widespread discussions about the dangers of online scams and financial deception, was heard by Justice Aisha Kumaliya in Maiduguri on Monday, March 17, 2025. The EFCC accused Ugwu of obtaining money under false pretence, engaging in criminal misappropriation, and impersonation, all of which are punishable under Nigerian law.
The prosecution revealed that between June 2023 and August 2024, Ugwu deceived one Emmanuel Ani into believing she was his fiancée and convinced him to send a total sum of N6,710,300 to her bank account. The unsuspecting victim believed the money was meant for the upkeep of his supposed bride-to-be, identified as Miss Chinansa. Investigations later exposed that the identity of Miss Chinansa was entirely fictitious, and Ugwu had no intentions of fulfilling the marriage promises she allegedly made to Ani.
The charge sheet presented by the EFCC read that Ugwu fraudulently obtained millions of naira from Ani by feeding him lies about a future together. The case further outlined how the suspect continuously manipulated the victim to extract money from him while keeping up the appearance of a long-distance romantic relationship. When Ani later discovered he had been defrauded, he confronted Ugwu, who was reportedly unable to provide any explanation or refund the money.
When the charges were read in court, Ugwu pleaded not guilty, setting the stage for a full-blown legal battle. EFCC prosecutors S.O. Saka and Faruku Muhammad pushed for an immediate trial date and asked the court to remand the defendant in custody until proceedings commence.
Justice Kumaliya granted the prosecution’s request and ordered Ugwu to be remanded in a correctional facility pending her trial. The case was then adjourned to April 8, 2025, when the court will begin hearing testimonies and reviewing evidence to determine the suspect’s fate.
The development has once again raised concerns over the rising cases of romance scams and online financial fraud in Nigeria. Many unsuspecting individuals have fallen victim to fraudsters who exploit emotions and trust to steal money. The EFCC has repeatedly warned Nigerians to verify identities before sending money, emphasizing the need for vigilance in personal and business relationships. The agency has also reaffirmed its commitment to cracking down on cyber-related fraud and ensuring justice is served.
As the case unfolds, legal experts believe it could set a precedent for future financial fraud prosecutions in Nigeria. The victim, Emmanuel Ani, has expressed hope that the court will deliver justice and ensure that those who exploit others through deception are held accountable.
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