Arrest of Suspect for Impersonation and Fraud
Operatives from the Makurdi Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested Fanen Ochough, a former Local Government Chairmanship aspirant in Gwer West, Benue State. Ochough is accused of impersonation and defrauding victims of over N14 million.
In a statement shared on Instagram on Tuesday, the EFCC revealed that Ochough was arrested for impersonating the Principal Private Secretary to the Benue State Governor, Fr. Hycent Alia, and Dr Emmanuel Chenge. The suspect is also accused of defrauding several individuals, including a former Deputy Governor of Benue State, Dr Stephen Lawani, of more than N14 million.
The EFCC stated that Ochough was apprehended in Makurdi metropolis on Friday, November 7, 2025, after the Zonal Directorate received a petition. According to the anti-graft agency, Ochough “defrauded his victims using the name and office of the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor and lured them with promises of awarding contracts and job opportunities.”
Details of the Alleged Fraud
Ochough allegedly used his position as an impersonator to gain the trust of various individuals, promising them lucrative contracts and employment opportunities. This deception allowed him to collect large sums of money from unsuspecting victims. The EFCC has not disclosed the identities of all the victims but confirmed that the fraud involved multiple individuals across different sectors.
The arrest came after months of investigation by the EFCC, which has been actively working to combat financial crimes in the region. The agency emphasized that such acts of impersonation and fraud are serious offenses that undermine public trust and the integrity of government institutions.
Related Case Involving a Former Minister
In a related development, the EFCC recently declared a former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, wanted over an alleged case of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of US$14,859,257. The details of this case are still under investigation, and the EFCC has urged anyone with information to come forward.
This latest arrest highlights the ongoing efforts of the EFCC to bring corrupt individuals to justice and restore confidence in the system. The agency continues to work closely with other law enforcement agencies to ensure that those who engage in financial crimes face the full consequences of their actions.
Impact on the Community
The arrest of Ochough has sent a strong message to potential fraudsters in the region. Local residents and business owners have expressed relief at the action taken by the EFCC, hoping that it will deter others from engaging in similar activities. Community leaders have also called for increased transparency and accountability in local governance to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that no one is above the law, regardless of their status or position. The agency encourages the public to report any suspicious activities or potential cases of corruption to the appropriate authorities.
Conclusion
The arrest of Fanen Ochough serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and the role of law enforcement in maintaining the integrity of public institutions. As the EFCC continues its investigations, it remains focused on bringing justice to those affected by financial crimes and ensuring that the system is protected from abuse.