The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clamped down on cross-border syndicates after hauling a Nigerian-American, Oluwatobi Adegoke, before the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos State. Presiding Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe ordered Adegoke’s remand at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre following a multi-million dollar luxury vehicle import scandal.
The Grand US-Nigeria Deception
Operatives from the EFCC’s Ilorin Zonal Directorate tracked down and arrested Adegoke in July 2026, blowing the lid off an international network. Investigators revealed that the suspect operated from the United States, utilizing enticing online advertisements and high-end imagery to target wealthy prospective buyers in Nigeria.
At the heart of the scam was a pristine 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG. Posing as a trusted international auto dealer, Adegoke convinced victims that he could seamlessly source and ship luxury automobiles straight from America. Instead, anti-graft investigators uncovered that at least two victims parted with a combined sum exceeding $320,000 (translating to over N434.88 million) with zero vehicles to show for it.
Inside the Courtroom Drama
Arraigned on a one-count charge bordering on stealing, the defendant pleaded not guilty.
According to the formal charge, Adegoke dishonestly converted $680,000—funds belonging to one Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike—which had been wired directly into the corporate bank account of his firm, Omosco Auto Sales LLC, supposedly to purchase a 2022 G-Wagon from an individual named Mr. Robinson.
Legal fireworks ensued immediately after the plea:
- Prosecution’s Stance: EFCC counsel Arazeem Adebayo urged the court to set an immediate trial date and push for a correctional facility remand.
- Defense Maneuvers: Defense counsel Olalekan Abiodun fought back, attempting to block the arraignment and later applying to keep his client locked in EFCC custody pending a formal bail application.
Both defense objections were decisively overruled by Justice Abike-Fadipe. The judge ordered that Adegoke remain behind bars at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre while adjournment was granted.
The trial has been officially scheduled to commence on January 13, 2027.
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