How 100 Nigerians got scammed chasing Canadian dream — Inside Lagos’ N500m visa fraud

For more than 100 Nigerians, the hope of relocating to Canada for a better life has ended in disappointment after losing over ₦500 million to a visa syndicate.

The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the arrest of four suspects involved in the massive fraud. Those arrested are 27-year-old Blessing Wefsutu, 36-year-old Chineye Christian, 23-year-old Archibong Udeme Ifereke, and 25-year-old Maurine Peter.

According to the police, the case was first reported at Ago Okota Division before being transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for detailed investigation.

Findings revealed that the suspects, who worked with an educational consultancy in Ago Okota, allegedly collected over ₦500 million from unsuspecting victims under the false promise of securing Canadian and Australian work visas.

The Command said more accomplices have been linked to the syndicate and efforts are ongoing to arrest them.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has urged the public to be cautious and verify the credibility of travel and recruitment agencies before making any payments.

He assured that the Command remains committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice and protecting residents from fraudsters.