Nigerians React As US Court Jails Five Nigerians For 159 Years Over Massive Fraud

A United States court has handed down a combined prison sentence of 159 years to five Nigerian nationals involved in a sprawling $17 million fraud scheme that targeted over 100 individuals, businesses, and government agencies globally.

The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed the convictions after an extensive investigation into a transnational cybercrime syndicate responsible for a range of fraudulent activities. These included romance scams, business email compromises, unemployment insurance fraud, and phony investment schemes, often preying on elderly and vulnerable victims.

The convicted individuals are:

• Damilola Kumapayi, 39

• Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen, 50

• Edgal Iribhogbe, 51

• Chidindu Okeke, 32

• Chiagoziem Okeke, 32

The group’s operations began around January 2017 and continued for several years. According to court documents, the conspirators manipulated victims through fake online relationships, hijacked legitimate business communications, and promoted fraudulent investment opportunities.

Once the illicit funds were obtained, they were funneled through a network of bank accounts and ultimately transferred to accomplices and entities in Africa and Asia.

“The scheme defrauded at least 100 victims—including individuals, corporations, and government bodies—out of approximately $17 million,” the DOJ revealed. “Elderly individuals were especially targeted through online dating platforms and elaborate deception.”

During sentencing, U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant delivered the following penalties:

• Chidindu and Chiagoziem Okeke: 40 years each

• Edgal Iribhogbe: 40 years

• Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen: 30 years and 5 months

• Damilola Kumapayi (who pleaded guilty): 9 years and 1 month

Officials noted that many victims were emotionally traumatized and financially ruined, with some losing their life savings entirely.