EFCC Nabs Pastor in N1.3 Billion Ford Foundation Grant Scam

EFCC Nabs Pastor in N1.3 Billion Ford Foundation Grant Scam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has recently apprehended Apostle Theophilus Oloche Ebonyi, the General Overseer of Faith On The Rock Ministry International….READ MORE

on allegations of orchestrating a massive fraud scheme involving counterfeit grants amounting to N1.3 billion. The pastor is accused of exploiting his congregation and unsuspecting Nigerians through a bogus grant claim linked to the Ford Foundation.

The arrest follows a statement from EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, highlighting the pastor’s alleged fraudulent activities. The statement reveals that Apostle Ebonyi used his NGO, Theobarth Global Foundation, to promote a fictitious intervention project, claiming that the Ford Foundation was offering a $20 million grant to support the less fortunate in society.

Utilizing various social media platforms, Ebonyi reportedly targeted his followers, encouraging them to subscribe as beneficiaries of the phony grant by paying for registration forms and clusters. Each subscriber allegedly paid N1.8 million, contributing to Ebonyi’s illicit earnings of N1,391,040,274.31.

EFCC investigations have debunked any connection between Ebonyi and the Ford Foundation, revealing that the renowned foundation disavowed any affiliation, grant, association, or dealings with the pastor or his NGO. The victims, comprised of innocent Nigerians and NGOs across the country, were reportedly deceived by the pastor’s elaborate scam.

In a significant development, the EFCC has identified five properties acquired by Ebonyi as proceeds from his fraudulent activities. The arrest and subsequent investigations underscore the commission’s commitment to tackling financial crimes and protecting the public from unscrupulous individuals engaged in fraudulent schemes. The case serves as a warning against falling victim to scams and highlights the importance of due diligence, especially in matters involving financial transactions and grants.