Nigeria: ₦31 Million Canada Visa Fraud Case Goes to Federal High Court

Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought a case before the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt over an alleged Canada visa fraud. Investigators say one petitioner alone paid out ₦31,062,000 after being introduced to a "Canada agent" by his own sister.

Key facts

• The alleged scheme involved a Canada visa and a "sponsored employment" offer
• The EFCC says the accused collected ₦31,062,000 from one petitioner
• Other victims allegedly paid $3,600 and €1,815
• The charge is advance fee fraud before the Federal High Court
• The accused, named as Rita, has pleaded not guilty to a five-count charge

What is the case about?

The EFCC says the accused collected money from victims in connection with a Canada visa and a "sponsored employment" offer. The sums were paid in three different currencies, according to investigators.

The introduction to the supposed Canada agent came from the accused herself, who is the sister of one of the victims. The case is being heard at the Federal High Court.

How much money is involved?

According to the EFCC, one petitioner paid ₦31,062,000. Other victims allegedly paid $3,600 and €1,815.

What is the charge?

The EFCC has charged the accused with advance fee fraud on a five-count charge. She has pleaded not guilty, and the court will decide the case. No date for a verdict has been announced.

What this means for travellers

The case concerns a supposed Canada visa and employment offer sold through an agent in Nigeria. Travellers should be cautious about paying anyone who promises a Canadian visa or job in exchange for advance fees, and should verify any offer before transferring money.

The court has yet to deliver its decision in the case.