EFCC arrests woman over N19m, €8,370 fake UK visa sponsorship scam
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Mbah Chidinma Sophina for an alleged fraud totalling N19 million and €8,370. The case involves a fake Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) scheme targeting a victim seeking to relocate to the UK. This marks the first publicly announced fraud investigation by the EFCC in 2026.
The suspect, known as Chidinma, allegedly promised to secure a CoS for a victim wanting to work in the UK as a caregiver. She demanded fees between €12,000 and €13,000, convincing the victim to pay in instalments.
Between August and November 2024, the victim transferred N19 million in eight separate payments and €8,370 in four tranches. After receiving the money, Chidinma failed to deliver the CoS. When the victim requested a refund, she blocked them on social media. During questioning, Chidinma claimed the funds had been passed to another person. However, she has refused to cooperate with investigators in identifying or locating this individual. The EFCC has stated that charges will be filed once the investigation is complete.
The case will proceed to court after the EFCC finalises its findings. The suspect remains in custody while authorities work to recover the defrauded amounts. No further fraud cases have been publicly reported by the EFCC in the first quarter of 2026.
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