LAGOS, Nigeria (FN) — A Nigerian man, Isreal Onen has been arraigned in Lagos over allegations that he defrauded a client of N60 million (about 40,000 dollars) in a visa scam, promising travel documents to Europe that never materialized.
Prosecutors say Israel Onen conspired with others still at large to obtain the money under false pretenses, claiming he could secure Ireland and Schengen visas for the complainant’s clients. The visas were never delivered, and the funds were not refunded.
The case was brought before Justice Ibrahim Kala of the Federal High Court in Lagos, where Onen faces multiple charges including conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence, money laundering, fraud, and stealing.
According to court filings, the alleged offenses took place between 2024 and 2025. The complainant, identified as Akinola Ayodele Emmanuel, reported the matter after repeated attempts to recover the funds failed.
Onen pleaded not guilty to the charges. His defense counsel argued that the allegations were exaggerated and requested bail, while prosecutors insisted that the seriousness of the fraud warranted strict conditions to prevent flight risk.
Visa racketeering has become a growing problem in Nigeria, where demand for travel opportunities abroad is high and fraudulent agents exploit citizens’ desperation. Authorities say scams involving fake visas and work permits have cost victims millions of naira in recent years.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria’s anti‑graft agency, has stepped up prosecutions in such cases, warning that visa fraud undermines public trust and damages the country’s reputation internationally.
Justice Kala adjourned the matter to allow both sides to prepare arguments, noting that the case highlights the need for vigilance against organized fraud. If convicted, Onen could face significant prison time under Nigeria’s Advance Fee Fraud and Related Offences Act.
Observers say the trial will test Nigeria’s ability to enforce accountability in high‑value fraud cases. Past prosecutions have often stalled or ended in plea bargains, raising concerns about deterrence.
For Emmanuel and his clients, the case is about more than money. “We were promised opportunities abroad, but instead we were left stranded,” he told reporters outside the court. “We want justice, not just for ourselves but for others who may fall victim to these schemes.”
Analysts note that visa fraud thrives in an environment where legitimate travel opportunities are scarce and expensive. Many Nigerians see migration as a path to better economic prospects, making them vulnerable to promises of quick access to Europe or North America.
The case also underscores the broader challenge of corruption in Nigeria’s travel and immigration sector. Fraudulent agents often operate openly, advertising services on social media and in local communities, while enforcement struggles to keep pace.
International observers say the Lagos trial could serve as a litmus test for Nigeria’s judiciary. A strong conviction would signal seriousness in tackling fraud, while a weak outcome could reinforce perceptions of impunity.
The controversy has already sparked debate about the role of government agencies in regulating visa services. Critics argue that lax oversight allows fraudsters to flourish, while victims are left with little recourse.
As the trial unfolds, Nigerians will be watching closely. For many, the case represents not only the betrayal of one man’s trust but also the broader struggle against fraud that has long plagued the country’s reputation abroad.
