Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested a former local government chairmanship aspirant in Benue State, Fanen Ochough, over alleged fraud amounting to N14 million.
The anti-graft agency confirmed that Ochough was apprehended by its Makurdi Zonal Directorate for impersonation and obtaining money under false pretence.
According to the EFCC, the suspect posed as the Principal Private Secretary to the Benue State Governor, Fr. Hyacinth Alia, Dr Emmanuel Chenge, and allegedly defrauded several people under the guise of securing government contracts and job offers.
“Fanen Ochough was arrested in Makurdi metropolis on Friday, November 7, 2025, after the commission received a petition detailing how he impersonated a top government official and defrauded unsuspecting victims,” the EFCC said in a statement.
The agency further revealed that among those swindled by the suspect was a former Deputy Governor of Benue State, Dr Stephen Lawani, who reportedly lost millions in the fraudulent scheme.
“Investigations showed that the suspect used the name and office of the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor to deceive his victims. He promised them contracts and employment opportunities in exchange for various sums of money,” the EFCC added.
Ochough is expected to face prosecution upon the completion of investigations.
Meanwhile, in a related case, the EFCC recently declared a former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, wanted for alleged conspiracy and dishonest conversion of over 14.8 million US dollars.
The agency reiterated its commitment to clamp down on individuals who use political or public office influence to defraud innocent Nigerians.
