The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially handed over a total of $132,362.43, ₦78,566,324.81, as well as multiple vehicles and properties to victims of fraud in the United States, Spain, and Switzerland.
This move, described by the EFCC as part of its commitment to combating economic and financial crimes, also signals the agency’s efforts to provide restitution to victims of fraudulent activities. The handover took place on Friday at the EFCC’s headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, with the Commission’s Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, leading the event.
In his remarks, Olukoyede emphasized that the gesture reflects Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to eradicating corruption and financial crimes. He also highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s dedication to fostering good governance, stimulating the economy, and ensuring that Nigeria is not seen as a safe haven for financial criminals. He reiterated the importance of international cooperation in tackling global financial crimes.
“We are here to show that the Nigerian government, through the EFCC, is committed to preventing financial crimes, recovering assets, and, when possible, restituting victims,” Olukoyede said. “When proceeds of crime are recovered, the most responsible action is to ensure the victims are compensated.”
The restitution involved the transfer of funds and assets to victims from Spain, the U.S., and Switzerland. For example, Maria Higon Velasco, Acting Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, received $1,300 and N30 million for Spanish victim Maria Del Rosario San Jose. Florent Geel, Senior Political Officer at the Swiss Embassy, received $100,011.43 for Swiss victim Chantai Helene Lavancy. Additionally, Charles Smith, Legal Attaché at the U.S. Embassy, received funds, vehicles, and properties for several U.S. victims, including Maria Jesus Brockell, Michael Smith, Cheryle Williams, and Marva Marrow.
The handover also included high-value assets such as luxury vehicles (Mercedes-Benz E550 and C450 AMG) and a residential property in Kaduna, Nigeria. Smith expressed gratitude, noting that the restitution would provide the victims with much-needed closure. He also commended the EFCC’s global reputation and impact in the fight against financial crimes.
Geel, representing Switzerland, thanked the Nigerian government and EFCC for their efforts in tackling internet fraud and financial crimes, highlighting the collaboration between Nigeria and Switzerland in making the digital world safer. He also praised the EFCC’s professionalism and integrity in handling the case.
Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed gratitude for the EFCC’s work, stating that the restitution would enhance Nigeria’s credibility on the international stage and help restore investor confidence. He emphasized that the initiative aligned with President Tinubu’s support for anti-corruption efforts and the EFCC’s mandate.
This restitution marks a significant step in the fight against international financial fraud and underscores Nigeria’s commitment to global cooperation in tackling financial crime.
