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FBI Arrests U.S.-Based Nigerian Pastor Over $4.2 Million COVID-19 Fraud
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has arrested Nigerian pastor Edward Abiodun Oluwasanmi for allegedly conspiring with Osun monarch, Oba Joseph Oloyede, to defraud the U.S. government of $4.2 million in COVID-19 relief funds.
Fraud Allegations
Oluwasanmi and Oloyede are accused of submitting forged documents to fraudulently obtain relief loans meant for struggling businesses during the pandemic.
The pastor allegedly used his three companies—Dayspring Property Incorporated, Dayspring Holdings, and Dayspring Transportation—to secure millions of dollars, which he then diverted for personal use, violating U.S. federal laws.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
- Oluwasanmi, who resides in the United States, was indicted on 13 fraud charges and arrested in Cleveland in April 2024.
- He was later released on a $20,000 bail under the condition that he appears for trial and serves any potential prison sentence if convicted.
- His U.S. and Nigerian passports have been confiscated to prevent flight risk.
Fraudulent Transactions and Asset Seizures
- In September 2020, Oluwasanmi transferred $221,880 to purchase a commercial property in South Euclid, Ohio.
- On October 26, 2021, he moved $1 million in COVID-19 relief funds into Dayspring Transportation’s brokerage account.
- Prosecutors have seized around $620,000 from him and are seeking to forfeit more assets acquired through fraudulent activities.
- On April 5, 2024, the FBI seized $599,250 from his Dayspring Transportation account at Fidelity Investments.
- Nearly $20,000 from his Dayspring Property account at Key Bank.
Potential Consequences
Oluwasanmi faces re-arrest if he fails to appear in court for his trial. His case, along with that of Oba Oloyede, adds to the growing list of Nigerian nationals convicted for fraud in the U.S.
Other high-profile Nigerian fraudsters previously convicted include:
- Bidemi Rufai, an associate of Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun, who recently completed his prison sentence.
- Omobolanle Bombata (aka Bobo Chicago).
- Wale Ogundana.
- Ramon ‘Hushpuppi’ Abbas, who was convicted for major cyber fraud operations.
The trial is set to proceed as prosecutors aim to recover the misappropriated COVID-19 relief funds.4o
