An investigation by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) has detailed how two prominent Nigerians allegedly impersonated a Dubai prince and his financial manager to defraud a Romanian businesswoman of over $2.5 million.
According to the report, 31-year-old Henry Nzube Ikeji, founder of the Nzube Ikeji Foundation, allegedly posed as a Dubai prince, while Dr. Martins Abhulimhen, 60, founder of the Jose Foundation, reportedly acted as the prince’s financial manager.
OCCRP disclosed that Ikeji, posing as royalty, initially contacted the victim via LinkedIn, claiming interest in supporting humanitarian projects in Romania. The interaction allegedly developed into an online romantic relationship, culminating in a marriage proposal.
The victim, identified only as Laura, was reportedly persuaded to part with large sums of money for what Ikeji described as mandatory traditional marriage rites linked to his supposed royal status.
As the scheme progressed, Laura was allegedly instructed to meet the prince’s “financial manager” in London. Dr. Abhulimhen reportedly introduced himself as Dr. Mathew Croos, further lending credibility to the deception.
Investigators said that over nearly two years, Laura wired more than $2.5 million to bank accounts linked to the suspects. The London Metropolitan Police later traced the funds to Abhulimhen’s accounts in the United Kingdom and Ikeji’s accounts in Nigeria.
The investigation also revealed that both men are well connected and have been photographed with high-profile figures in Nigeria and abroad, including the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
They were also said to have associated with influential socialites and business figures such as Cubana Chief Priest, Obi Cubana, Arthur Eze, and other notable Nigerians. OCCRP noted that the suspects allegedly leveraged their public image, philanthropic foundations and elite connections to gain trust and deflect suspicion.
As of the time of filing this report, none of the individuals named has issued an official response. It also remains unclear whether Nigerian law enforcement agencies have initiated local prosecutions.
Elijah Adeyemi
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