EFCC arrests Abuja based agent over alleged N288m property scam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has taken into custody an Abuja-based property agent, Hajia Adama Ahmed Adamu, over an alleged fraud involving N288 million.

The commission made this known on Wednesday via its official X handle, stating that operatives from its Ilorin Zonal Directorate carried out the arrest after receiving a petition.

According to the agency, the suspect allegedly collected the money from a complainant, Alhaji Tanko Yawale, on the promise of helping him secure a property in Abuja.

“The Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC has arrested an Abuja-based house agent, Hajia Adama Ahmed Adamu, over an alleged property fraud to the tune of N288 million.

“The suspect allegedly obtained the money from Alhaji Tanko Yawale under the pretext of facilitating the purchase of a property located at House 31, Haile Selassie Street, Asokoro, Abuja,” the agency stated.

The EFCC also noted that after receiving the payment, the suspect allegedly failed to produce legitimate documents for the said property and became difficult to reach, prompting suspicion.

“ Following the payment, Hajia Adamu allegedly failed to provide the complainant with valid documents for the property and subsequently became evasive, raising suspicion and prompting a formal petition to the EFCC,” the commission said.

Incidents of property fraud remain a persistent issue within Nigeria’s real estate sector, especially in cities like Abuja, where fraudulent agents often pose as legitimate intermediaries.

The commission added that it has recently stepped up efforts to tackle such scams, urging Nigerians to always verify property ownership and documentation before committing funds.