A traditional ruler from Osun State, Nigeria, Oba Joseph Oloyede, and a Nigerian pastor, Edward Oluwasanmi, have pleaded guilty to a $4.2 million COVID-19 relief fund scam in the United States.
According to court documents, Oba Oloyede, who is also known as the Apetu of Ipetumodu, and Pastor Oluwasanmi submitted false claims to obtain millions of dollars in relief funding intended to support businesses and individuals affected by the pandemic.
The monarch and pastor allegedly used their companies to defraud the government through the COVID-19 relief fund. Oba Oloyede’s companies included Available Tax Services Incorporated, Available Financial Corporation, and Available Transportation Company, while Pastor Oluwasanmi’s companies included Dayspring Transportation Limited, Dayspring Holding Incorporated, and Dayspring Property Incorporated.
Instead of using the funds for their intended purposes, the defendants used the money for personal gain. The guilty pleas mark a significant development in the case, which has drawn attention to the issue of fraud and abuse of COVID-19 relief funds.
The outcome serves as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar fraudulent activities. The case highlights the challenges authorities face in ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of relief funds.
Oba Oloyede and Pastor Oluwasanmi face possible imprisonment after pleading guilty to charges related to the COVID-19 relief fund scam. Their sentencing is scheduled for July 2, 2025, and April 25, 2025, respectively.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and accountability in the management of public funds, particularly during times of crisis.
