EFCC Arrests School Owner in Uyo for Alleged Visa and Scholarship Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Mrs. Imaobong Cyril Okpong, the proprietor of Michael Udonquak Schools, Mbierebe, Akwa Ibom State, for allegedly defrauding unsuspecting victims through fake scholarship and visa schemes.

According to a statement from the EFCC’s Uyo Zonal Directorate, Okpong was apprehended following a petition by Dr. (Mrs.) Blessing Nse Bassey, a medical practitioner, who accused the suspect of defrauding her of ₦3 million under the pretext of securing university admission and Canadian visas for her and her husband.

Dr. Bassey stated that the suspect approached her in February 2024 with a purported opportunity to obtain a foreign scholarship and study visa. She said she only made payment after Okpong signed and notarized an indemnity agreement. However, after receiving the ₦3 million, the suspect reportedly became unreachable and failed to fulfill her promises.

“She stopped taking calls and did not deliver on any of the agreed terms,” the EFCC quoted Bassey as saying.

The petitioner further alleged that Okpong had defrauded several other victims, including one who was stranded in China after discovering that her supposed scholarship did not exist. Other victims allegedly traveled abroad with fake documents, resulting in deportations and significant financial losses.

The EFCC confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.