The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a strong warning to the public about the rising cases of land fraud in Abuja. This follows the arrest of one Nwobo Williams Chibuike, who allegedly posed as a genuine land vendor and defrauded several people by selling fake plots in various parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to the EFCC, Chibuike presented himself as the Managing Director of multiple real estate companies—C&C Reality & Construction Limited, Dream-Krest Homes and Properties Limited, and Dan Faith Shelters Limited. He is accused of offering non-existent land in areas like Kurudu, Sabon Lugbe East Extension, Kpeyegyi, and Jikwoyi Village Extension.
The fake land scam in Abuja reportedly cost victims millions of naira, with some people paying as much as ₦60 million for plots that don’t exist. Others paid ₦24 million, ₦11 million, and ₦3.5 million for lands in locations such as Karsana, Pyakasa, Jikwoyi, Katampe Extension, Guzape 2, and Kuje—all of which were confirmed by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to be fictitious.
“Investigations revealed that none of the lands being sold by Chibuike and his associates are real,” the EFCC said in a statement. The agency added that he would be prosecuted as soon as their investigation is complete.
Read Also: Tinubu Orders Immediate Overhaul of Security Strategy, Says ‘Enough is Enough’
The EFCC also urged residents to be careful when dealing with land sellers, especially those who operate without proper verification or licenses. “We are calling on the public to stay alert and avoid falling into the trap of fraudsters disguising as real estate agents,” the agency said.
As part of efforts to curb this growing problem, the Commission is intensifying its clampdown on individuals involved in the sale of fake land in Abuja. Citizens are encouraged to verify every land transaction through official channels and avoid cash payments to unverified agents.
With the rising cases of land-related scams, the EFCC’s latest arrest highlights the importance of due diligence in property transactions and serves as a clear warning to those looking to exploit unsuspecting buyers in the booming Abuja real estate market.
