The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over $132,000 and N78 million to victims of fraud from the United States, Spain, and Switzerland.
The restitution, which also included vehicles and real estate, took place at EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Friday.
“The event is a demonstration of the commitment of the federal government of Nigeria and that of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the fight against corruption and financial crimes,” EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede stated during the handover ceremony. “We are proving to the world that Nigeria is not a safe haven for financial crimes.”
In a statement issued by the EFCC’S spokesman, Dele Oyewale, among the assets returned was a Mercedes Benz E550, a Mercedes Benz C450 AMG, and a residential bungalow in Kaduna.
Acting Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Maria Higon Velasco, received $1,300 and confirmation of a N30 million transfer on behalf of a victim.
Meanwhile, First Secretary at the Swiss Embassy, Florent Geel, accepted $100,000 for Swiss victim Chantai Helene Lavancy. “This restitution demonstrates the effectiveness, integrity, and professionalism of Nigeria’s financial crime-fighting efforts,” he said.
Legal Attaché of the FBI, Charles Smith, received over $7,344, an additional N7.9 million, and Bitcoin worth $4,470 for U.S. victims. He also accepted vehicles and property for another victim, stating, “This gives victims closure and restores their sense of justice.”
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised the EFCC’s efforts, with Permanent Secretary Umar Ahmed highlighting the restitution’s impact on Nigeria’s global credibility. “This enhances investor confidence and strengthens our fight against corruption,” he said.
