The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over $127,892.43 and N70,602,841.46 recovered from Nigeria to victims of fraud in the United States, Spain, and Switzerland.
At a formal handover ceremony held at the EFCC headquarters on Friday, representatives of the respective countries received the assets, marking a significant move in Nigeria’s fight against financial crimes.
Charles Smith, legal attaché of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), received $26,581 and N40,602,841.46 on behalf of U.S. victims.
Additionally, two luxury vehicles—a Mercedes Benz E550 4Matic and a Mercedes Benz C450 AMG—were returned, along with a residential bungalow at 17/19 Seaman Street, Unguwar Maigero, Kaduna State.
For Switzerland, Ambassador Andreas Baum accepted $100,011.43 on behalf of a defrauded Swiss national, while Maria Velasco, acting Spanish ambassador to Nigeria, received $1,300 and N30,000,000 meant for a Spanish victim.
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Speaking at the event, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede reiterated the commission’s dedication to ensuring justice for victims of fraud.
He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to good governance and international cooperation in tackling financial crimes.
“This event underscores the resolve of the Nigerian government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fight corruption and financial crimes,” Olukoyede stated. “We recover assets to restitute victims, and it’s crucial to understand that under the law, anyone who knowingly holds onto proceeds of crime is considered an accessory.”
The EFCC continues to collaborate with international agencies in tracking, recovering, and returning assets obtained through fraudulent means, reaffirming its role in upholding transparency and justice.