EFCC arraigns Nigerian-American over $680,000 vehicle import scam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally charged Nigerian-American Oluwatobi Adegoke in connection with a $680,000 vehicle import scam, according to a report by the commission. The arraignment took place on October 8, 2026, before Special Offences Court Judge Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe in Ikeja, Lagos State. The commission disclosed this in a statement shared on X, revealing that Adegoke was arrested in July 2026 amid allegations of a cross-border vehicle import fraud that reportedly involved over $320,000 (approximately N434.88m).

The EFCC stated that preliminary investigations revealed Adegoke was part of a U.S.-based syndicate that defrauded unsuspecting Nigerians by falsely advertising luxury vehicles for sale and shipment. The statement highlighted that Adegoke allegedly advertised a 2024 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG to potential buyers in Nigeria, promising to purchase and ship the vehicle.

Two alleged victims are said to have collectively paid more than $320,000 for this purported transaction. Among the charges filed is one count of dishonestly converting property belonging to Ikechukwu Osita Ifeabunike, totaling $680,000, which was allegedly transferred to the bank account of Adegoke's company, Omosco Auto Sales LLC, for the purchase of a 2022 G Wagon from a Mr. Robinson.

Adegoke pleaded not guilty to the charge. Following his plea, the EFCC requested a trial date and remand, while his defense attorney sought the same and pressed for Adegoke’s remand in EFCC custody pending bail proceedings. The court ordered Adegoke to be held at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre and adjourned the case until January 13, 2027, for trial.