The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reported that Adefowora Abiodun Olanipekun, a suspected promoter of Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX), has surrendered to the commission. Olanipekun is one of four individuals declared wanted by the EFCC over an alleged $1 billion fraudulent investment scheme linked to CBEX. He has expressed willingness to cooperate with investigators.

The EFCC had previously obtained a court order to arrest and detain six suspected CBEX promoters, including Olanipekun, pending the conclusion of investigations and possible prosecution. The suspects are alleged to be involved in a massive investment scam. In a related development, the EFCC has commenced investigation into $86,500, €200, and 305,150 Saudi Arabia Riyal seized by the Nigeria Customs Service at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport. Meanwhile, a former Central Bank of Nigeria governor, Godwin Emefiele, has had his application to reclaim a vast estate in Abuja dismissed by the court.

Last Thursday, the Federal High Court in Abuja granted the EFCC permission to arrest and detain six suspected CBEX promoters pending the conclusion of investigations and possible prosecution. Justice Emeka Nwite issued the order following an ex parte motion filed by EFCC counsel, Fadila Yusuf. In granting the application, Nwite said: “I have listened to the submission of the learned counsel for the applicant (EFCC). I have also gone through the affidavit evidence and exhibits, along with the written address. I am satisfied that the application is meritorious and hereby grant it as prayed.” The suspects named in the court order include Olanipekun, Oluwanisola, Uko, Oloyede, Avwerosuo Otorudo and Chukwuebuka Ehirim, listed as first to sixth.