In an unusual turn of events, a suspected employment fraudster, Idris Adamu, voluntarily surrendered himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Gombe State on Monday, citing "fear of the EFCC" as his motivation.
According to a statement released by EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the middle-aged man walked into the EFCC Gombe Zonal Directorate around 1:00 PM, requesting to meet with the Acting Zonal Director, Deputy Commander of the EFCC (DCE), Sa'ad Hanafi Sa'ad.
Oyewale described the incident as "mild drama" as the self-confessed suspect expressed his desire to "confess some hidden truths about the crimes he had committed in the past."
Confession of Fraud
During his meeting with the Acting Zonal Director, Adamu made a startling confession: "In the past, I have obtained the aggregate sum of N9 million through my bank account from different individuals in the guise of offering them employment opportunities in Federal Government agencies, which was false."
The suspect added, "I have changed but I am afraid of the EFCC," suggesting remorse for his actions and fear of potential consequences had prompted his surrender.
The EFCC statement indicated that Adamu is being investigated for alleged impersonation and obtaining money by false pretense, serious offenses under Nigerian law.
After listening to Adamu's confession, DCE Sa'ad thanked him for coming forward and directed that the self-confessed suspect be taken to the investigation department for a thorough investigation of the case.
Employment fraud has become increasingly common in Nigeria, where high unemployment rates make job seekers vulnerable to scammers who promise non-existent positions in government agencies and private organizations in exchange for money.
The EFCC continues to warn Nigerians to be vigilant and report suspicious employment offers, especially those requiring payment for job placements.