The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Fanen Ochough, a former chairmanship aspirant in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State, for allegedly impersonating a top government official and defrauding several individuals of over ₦14 million.
The arrest was made by operatives of the EFCC’s Makurdi Zonal Directorate on Friday, November 7, 2025, following a petition lodged against the suspect. According to the anti-graft agency, Ochough allegedly posed as Dr. Emmanuel Chenge, the Principal Private Secretary to the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hycent Alia.
Through this impersonation, the suspect reportedly tricked victims with promises of government contracts and job opportunities. Among those said to have fallen victim to the scam is a former Deputy Governor of Benue State, Dr. Stephen Lawani. The victims were allegedly defrauded through false assurances that they would secure government appointments or contracts once they paid certain amounts.
The EFCC stated that Ochough was apprehended within the Makurdi metropolis after investigations linked him to fraudulent activities carried out in the name of the Benue State Government. The agency also recovered evidence suggesting that the suspect used the Governor’s office and identity of his aide to convince victims of his claims.
Meanwhile, in a separate case, the EFCC recently declared a former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, wanted over allegations involving conspiracy and the dishonest conversion of more than $14 million.
The anti-corruption agency has reiterated its commitment to tracking and prosecuting individuals involved in fraud and impersonation across the country as part of its ongoing campaign against corruption.