In the shadowy world of fraud and deception, Boniface Okana Okoli has established himself as a notorious scam artist, preying on unsuspecting individuals across Nigeria. Hailing from Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State but based in Lagos, Okoli has perfected the art of manipulation, using fake promises and counterfeit connections to defraud vulnerable citizens. His fraudulent schemes, primarily centered around the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), have cost his victims millions of naira, leaving many in financial ruin.
For years, Okoli has built a deceptive persona, moving from one location to another, snapping photos with influential personalities to create a false sense of credibility. He strategically aligns himself with politicians, business moguls, and prominent figures, using these images as bait to lure his victims. He falsely claims to be a high-ranking official at the Nigerian Ports Authority, where he allegedly has access to auctioned vehicles. With this lie, he convinces unsuspecting individuals to part with huge sums of money, promising them luxury cars at giveaway prices.
One of his many victims, Dominic Okweche, fell for Okoli’s deceitful scheme after being promised a truck from the NPA. Trusting Okoli’s fabricated connections, Okweche handed over ₦7 million, expecting prompt delivery of the vehicle. However, after receiving the money, Okoli vanished without fulfilling his end of the deal, leaving Okweche counting his losses. Similarly, another victim, Ogar Clement (MC), was duped out of ₦11 million in a similar vehicle auction scam.
Okoli’s fraudulent activities do not discriminate by age or social status. Even younger individuals, such as Freedom Iripia, have fallen prey to his elaborate scams. His ability to manipulate and deceive knows no bounds, targeting both seasoned businessmen and aspiring entrepreneurs. The case of Ogar Ogodo, popularly known as Bishop Exquisite, further highlights Okoli’s growing list of victims. Using the same tactics, he collected large sums of money, promising lucrative deals that never materialized.
Perhaps the most shocking of his recent crimes was his fraudulent deal involving an anonymous Bekwarra Citizen. In this particular scam, Okoli promised to deliver two Lexus L570 SUVs, supposedly from an NPA auction, at a heavily discounted rate. Trusting his words, the person paid a staggering ₦30 million. As expected, once the money exchanged hands, Okoli disappeared, cutting off all forms of communication with the victim.
Okoli’s method of operation is not just cunning but deeply damaging. His crimes go beyond financial loss; they shatter trust, leaving victims humiliated and helpless. Many who have fallen prey to his deceit have been left in financial distress, some even taking loans to fund what they believed were legitimate deals. His fraudulent activities have not only affected individuals but have also cast a shadow over genuine business transactions involving government agencies.
Despite his long history of fraud, Okoli remains at large, freely orchestrating more scams without facing legal consequences. His ability to evade law enforcement raises critical concerns about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s justice system in handling high-profile fraud cases. Many victims, out of fear or shame, choose not to report their losses, allowing him to continue his criminal enterprise unchecked.
The people of Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole must be vigilant against individuals like Boniface Okana Okoli. Public awareness is crucial in ensuring that others do not fall victim to his deceitful tactics. Social media and community networks should be leveraged to expose his fraudulent activities, warning potential victims before they suffer irreparable financial loss.
Law enforcement agencies must act swiftly to bring Okoli to justice. His fraudulent empire must be dismantled, and his victims must receive justice. The Nigerian Ports Authority, whose name he has tarnished, must also take a stand by publicly disassociating itself from his criminal activities. Until he is caught and made to answer for his crimes, no one is safe from his fraudulent schemes. The time to act is now.
Watch out for more revealing part 2.
