A police officer attached to the National Cybercrime Centre (NCC), Victor Okeshola, has been accused of aiding the escape of Precious Chiradza, a Zimbabwean national facing trial for allegedly defrauding Nigerians of over ₦1 billion through a fraudulent investment scheme.
Chiradza and her South African associates are currently facing charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja for operating QZ Assets Management, a firm that allegedly lured investors into a fake index trading scheme. Victims of the fraud claim they lost significant sums, including $300,000 from Onyia Ogochukwu and $44,000 from Chinagorom Uchechi.
Allegations of Police Complicity
Following her arrest in Port Harcourt, Chiradza was transferred to the NCC in Abuja for further investigation. However, reports suggest that rather than ensuring due process, Okeshola allegedly facilitated her escape after receiving substantial bribes.
Sources allege that Okeshola developed a personal relationship with Chiradza while she was in police custody. He is accused of arranging her bail through fraudulent means, allowing her to leave the country despite being under criminal investigation. Reports indicate that Chiradza has since traveled to South Africa and Dubai and is now allegedly seeking to divorce her Nigerian husband.
Legal Complications and Court Proceedings
Concerned about potential obstruction of justice, one of the victims, Chinagorom Uchechi, filed a petition with the Inspector General of Police, alleging misconduct in the handling of the case. The petition includes evidence purportedly showing Okeshola and Chiradza together in foreign locations.
During a recent hearing, the prosecution attempted to withdraw charges against Chiradza and her associates. However, Justice James Kolawole Omotosho of the Federal High Court insisted that the missing defendants or their sureties must appear before any withdrawal could be considered. The case has been adjourned to December 12, 2024.
Calls for Action
The allegations have sparked public outcry, with calls for the Inspector General of Police to intervene and reassign the case to an independent investigative team. Victims of the fraudulent scheme have urged law enforcement to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible for obstructing the process are held accountable.
As the case unfolds, it raises broader concerns about corruption within law enforcement and the challenges of ensuring accountability in Nigeria’s justice system.