EFCC Arrests Alleged Fake Land Vendor Over N90m Property Scam in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sounded the alarm over a major real estate fraud in Abuja involving a suspected fake land vendor who allegedly swindled unsuspecting buyers out of more than ₦90 million.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the EFCC confirmed the arrest of Nwobo Williams Chibuike in Abuja.

He is accused of posing as a genuine property developer while selling non-existent plots of land across various locations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

According to investigators, Chibuike presented himself as the managing director of multiple real estate firms: C&C Reality & Construction Limited, Dream-Krest Homes and Properties Limited, and Dan Faith Shelters Limited.

Through these outfits, he allegedly marketed fictitious plots in areas such as Kurudu, Sabon Lugbe East Extension, Kpeyegyi, Jikwoyi Village Extension, and more.

The EFCC disclosed that victims were lured into paying large sums, with individual losses ranging from ₦3.5 million to as high as ₦60 million.

Other affected locations include Karsana, Pyakasa, Katampe Extension, Guzape 2, and Kuje — all within the FCT.

“The suspect and his agents were collecting huge payments for lands that simply do not exist,” the EFCC stated. Verification from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) revealed that the properties marketed by Chibuike had no official records or approvals.

In response, the EFCC warned Abuja residents and prospective land buyers to be extremely cautious of “roaming vendors and unofficial marketers,” especially those operating around satellite towns and urban extensions.

“Be appropriately guided,” the Commission urged. “If in doubt, consult with the FCDA or appropriate authorities before making any payments.”

Chibuike is currently in custody and, according to the EFCC, will be formally charged in court once investigations are concluded.

Background

This isn’t the first time such a scheme has come to light. In October 2023, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) revealed it had uncovered at least 189 fake companies being used to acquire land in Abuja fraudulently.

That discovery followed an alert from the FCT Administration which led to a deeper investigation into the syndicate behind the fake firms.

The growing number of property-related fraud cases has become a troubling trend in Nigeria’s capital, putting pressure on regulatory bodies to tighten oversight and improve public awareness.

As authorities work to clean up the real estate space, Nigerians are being advised to conduct due diligence before engaging in any land transaction.