EFCC Busts Alleged Abuja Land Scammer Who Sold Phantom Plots in Prime Areas

•Suspect Used Multiple Aliases, Fictitious Companies to Defraud Victims of Millions
By Juliet Aliwo.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended a suspected notorious land scammer operating in Abuja, identified as Chibuike, who allegedly defrauded numerous unsuspecting individuals by selling non-existent plots of land in various prime locations across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to a statement released by the EFCC on Wednesday, the suspect employed a web of aliases and company names, including C&C Reality & Construction Limited, Dream-Krest Homes and Properties Limited, and Dan Faith Shelters Limited, to perpetrate his fraudulent activities.
EFCC investigations revealed that Chibuike falsely claimed ownership of properties in districts such as Kurudu, Sabon Lugbe East Extension, Kpeyegyi, and Jikoyi Village Extension. However, inquiries conducted by the anti-graft agency at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) unequivocally confirmed that these plots do not exist.
Victims of the elaborate scam reportedly paid sums ranging from N3.5 million to a staggering N60 million for these phantom lands situated in highly sought-after areas like Karsana, Pyakasa, Jikwoyi, Katampe Extension, Guzape 2, and Kuje.
The EFCC detailed how Chibuike masqueraded as the Managing Director of his fabricated real estate firms, enticing his victims with seemingly legitimate documentation and false assurances of genuine ownership.
“The suspect will be charged in court as soon as investigations are concluded,” the Commission affirmed in its official statement.
In response to the escalating prevalence of real estate fraud, the EFCC issued a strong advisory to the public, urging heightened vigilance when engaging with land vendors, particularly itinerant agents operating within and around the FCT.
The Commission strongly recommended that prospective buyers meticulously verify all land documents with the relevant authorities before committing any financial resources.