The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ekiti State Command, has arraigned one Abigail Brains Timothy over her alleged involvement in a visa fraud scheme amounting to ₦159,108,364.
The NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Tolulope Afolabi, confirmed the arraignment in a statement issued in Ado Ekiti on Saturday evening. He said the suspect was charged following investigations into claims of defrauding Pastor Adewusi Tibatope Samuel and several others under the guise of securing visas and work permits.
“Following a thorough preliminary investigation, the matter has now been charged to a competent court in Ado Ekiti. The court has ordered the detention of the suspect at a correctional facility pending the continuation of her trial,” Afolabi stated.
According to details provided, Abigail allegedly deceived Pastor Adewusi by claiming she could procure valid visas and work permits for 65 individuals introduced to her by the pastor. Trusting her claims, the victims reportedly paid over ₦159 million, covering visa processing and related fees.
The suspect, after collecting the funds, reportedly fled Lagos and was tracked to Benin City, Edo State, where she was apprehended by NSCDC operatives on May 25, 2025, following intensive intelligence gathering.
“Investigations revealed that the suspect had no genuine means or intention to provide the promised visas or employment opportunities,” Afolabi added.
The NSCDC assured the public of its commitment to diligent prosecution of fraudulent practices and economic crimes in line with Nigerian laws and international best practices. The state commandant, Mr. Toma Enya, also warned members of the public against patronising fake visa agents and encouraged timely reporting of fraudulent activities to law enforcement agencies.
“The NSCDC remains committed to protecting lives, property, and critical national assets while promoting peaceful dispute resolution through our trained peace and conflict resolution officers,” Afolabi said.