The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Uyo Zonal Directorate, has arraigned Victor Ekpong Thompson before the Federal High Court, Uyo for allegedly defrauding American investors of $525,276.
Thompson faces an eight-count charge of obtaining money by false pretenses. The EFCC alleged that it raised funds from unsuspecting victims under the guise of facilitating investments in mineral resources and deep sea port projects. The complainants include Tammy Jensen, Kenneth Blad, Peter Jensen and others.
One of the charges alleges that between April and December 2024, Thompson obtained $213,350 from investors under false pretenses, in violation of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Crimes Act of 2006.
When the charges were read to him, Thompson pleaded not guilty.
The prosecution, led by Joshua Abolarin, requested his remand pending trial, while his lawyer, Savn Daniel, requested bail, which the prosecution opposed.
Judge Maureen Adaobi adjourned the case until March 19, 2026 to rule on the bail application and the start of the trial. She ordered Thompson to remain at the EFCC detention center in Uyo.