Crime

How I was Defrauded of $370,000 by a Nigerian Suspect American__’American Victim

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 7th, 2024.

How I was Defrauded of $370,000 by a Nigerian Suspect American__’American Victim

Nicole Kierulff Sayers, an American from Oregon, testified at the FCT High Court in Abuja, recounting how she was defrauded of $370,000 by Nwachi Chidozie Kingsley, a suspected Nigerian internet fraudster.

On Wednesday, July 3, Sayers appeared as a witness for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Kingsley’s ongoing trial before Justice Peter Kekemeke. The EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, revealed on Friday that Kingsley is facing charges of stealing, obtaining by false pretenses, and criminal possession of fake documents.

Led in evidence by prosecution counsel Fatsuma Muhammad, Sayers identified Kingsley in court as the man who first contacted her on Facebook during her birthday.

“I know the defendant; he messaged me on Facebook on my birthday, claiming to be a member of the same spiritual organization,” Sayers testified. “Our conversations turned romantic, leading to a deeper relationship.”

Sayers detailed how Kingsley requested money to secure a contract from the Ministry of Works and Housing, alleging that his life was in danger if he did not provide the funds.

“Eleven days after we started talking, he asked me for money, claiming it was for a contract award and that some men were threatening him,” Sayers said. “I was vulnerable and emotionally attached to him, so I believed his story.”

She explained that Kingsley promised to repay her $15,000 within 45 days, and she transferred the money. Sayers also described how she later met Kingsley’s family through a FaceTime video call, which included his parents, siblings, and his alleged daughter.

The trial was adjourned until November 7, 2024, for furt

her proceedings.