By Peter Omopo
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Fanen Ochough, a former chairmanship aspirant for Gwer West Local Government Area in Benue State, for alleged impersonation and fraud involving over ₦14 million.
In a statement posted on its official Instagram page on Tuesday, the Makurdi Zonal Directorate of the EFCC said Ochough was apprehended for impersonating Dr. Emmanuel Chenge, the Principal Private Secretary to the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hycent Alia.
According to the EFCC, the suspect allegedly used Dr. Chenge’s name and office to defraud several individuals, including a former Deputy Governor of Benue State, Dr. Stephen Lawani, under the pretext of facilitating contracts and job placements.
“Ochough defrauded his victims using the name and office of the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor and lured them with promises of awarding contracts and job opportunities,” the agency stated.
The commission said the arrest followed a petition received at the Makurdi Zonal Directorate, leading to Ochough’s capture within Makurdi metropolis on Friday, November 7, 2025.
The suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to cracking down on impersonation and public-sector-related fraud, urging Nigerians to verify all claims and avoid being deceived by individuals posing as government officials.
Meanwhile, the commission also recently declared former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, wanted over an alleged case of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14.85 million belonging to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
