The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Victor Ekpong Thompson before the Federal High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, over the alleged defrauding of several American citizens of $525,276.
Thompson was arraigned on Thursday, January 29, 2026, before Justice Maureen Adaobi on an eight-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence.
According to the EFCC’s Uyo Zonal Directorate, the defendant allegedly deceived his victims by claiming he would facilitate investments in mineral resource mining and deep seaport development projects. Those affected include American nationals Tammy Jensen, Peter Jensen, Kenneth Blad, and other investors.
One of the charges stated that between April and December 2024, Thompson fraudulently obtained $213,350 from the victims, an offence said to contravene the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.
The EFCC alleged that Thompson knowingly misrepresented the existence and viability of the purported investment ventures with intent to defraud.
He pleaded not guilty to all charges. Following his plea, prosecution counsel Joshua Abolarin requested that the defendant be remanded and that a trial date be fixed. Defence counsel Savn Daniel applied for bail, which was opposed by the prosecution.
Justice Adaobi adjourned the case to March 19, 2026, for ruling on the bail application and commencement of trial, and ordered that Thompson be remanded at the EFCC detention facility in Uyo pending the court’s decision.
The EFCC said the arraignment underscores its commitment to combating cross-border financial crimes and protecting Nigeria’s financial system.
