In a significant move to combat financial crimes and restore Nigeria’s global reputation, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over $132,362.43 and N78,566,324.81 to fraud victims from the United States, Spain, and Switzerland.
The restitution ceremony took place at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, and was overseen by the Commission’s Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede. He reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring justice for fraud victims worldwide.
“This event is a demonstration of the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the fight against corruption and financial crimes,” Olukoyede stated. “We are proving to the world that Nigeria is not a safe haven for fraudsters. We don’t just recover stolen assets; we ensure victims are restituted.”
Beyond cash restitution, the EFCC also returned vehicles, real estate, and cryptocurrency recovered from fraudsters to the respective embassies for onward transmission to the victims.
– In Spain, the Acting Ambassador, Maria Higon Velasco, received $1,300 and confirmation of N30 million transferred to the Spanish Embassy for victim Maria Del Rosario San Jose.
– In Switzerland, Florent Geel, Senior Political Officer at the Swiss Embassy, collected $100,011.43 on behalf of Chantai Helene Lavancy.
– In the United States, Charles Smith, Legal Attaché of the FBI at the U.S. Embassy, received multiple restitutions, including:
– $7,344, N7,963,483.35, and Bitcoin worth $4,470 for victim Maria Jesus Brockell.
– $7,527 for Michael Smith.
– $11,710 for Cheryle Williams.
– N32,639,358.11 for Marva Marrow.
– Two luxury vehicles—a Mercedes Benz E550 4Matic and a Mercedes Benz C450 AMG.
– A residential bungalow in Kaduna State.
The restitution event highlighted the importance of international collaboration in combating financial crimes. Spanish Ambassador Velasco expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s efforts, saying, “This is a sign of the collaboration between Nigeria and Spain, and we are very grateful.”
Similarly, FBI representative Smith commended the EFCC, stating, “Many may not understand the impact this has on the victims. It gives them closure and makes them feel whole again. The EFCC isn’t just a Nigerian agency; it’s a global contender in the fight against financial crimes.”
Geel of the Swiss Embassy also praised Nigeria’s commitment, emphasizing, “This restitution shows the integrity and professionalism of the EFCC. Switzerland remains committed to working with Nigeria to make the digital world safer.”
Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the restitution as a milestone in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
“This development will greatly enhance Nigeria’s reputation internationally and restore investor confidence in our economy,” he noted, commending President Tinubu’s support for the EFCC’s anti-corruption mandate.
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to recovering stolen assets and ensuring victims receive justice, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a responsible global partner in the fight against financial crimes.
