Nigerian National Sentenced for Fraud Scheme

Christopher Agbaje, a Nigerian individual, has been found guilty of participating in a fraudulent scheme targeting a law firm in North Dakota.

The US Attorney’s Office in North Dakota reported that between November and December of 2020, Agbaje, along with accomplices, posed as a business owner involved in a dispute with a firm in Bismarck and created a fictitious attorney-client relationship.

After delivering a fraudulent Citibank check worth $198,850.00, which was deposited by the law firm, Agbaje instructed them to wire $198,336.68 to one of his business associates.

Following this wire transfer, Agbaje then told his associate to carry out a bogus $180,000 international transaction to obscure the actual whereabouts and ownership of the funds.

Once he learned that authorities were investigating the case, Agbaje encouraged his partner to “gain leverage,” “press on,” and act obliviously.

Agbaje was extradited from the UK to North Dakota in February 2024, facing five charges. Although he was acquitted of Wire and Mail Fraud in May, he was convicted of Money Laundering, Aiding and Abetting Wire Fraud, and Aiding and Abetting Mail Fraud.

On September 11, Agbaje was sentenced to 142 months in prison and ordered to pay $188,935.74 in restitution to the law firm.

“This strong sentence shows that international fraudsters cannot hide from justice,” stated U.S. Attorney Mac Schneider. “Our prosecutors and law enforcement will work globally to ensure accountability for fraud against North Dakotans in federal courts.”

Special Agent-in-Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. from the FBI Minneapolis added, “This sentencing emphasizes that no fraudulent scheme is beyond the reach of justice, regardless of its complexity. The FBI will diligently collaborate with international partners to safeguard the financial security of Americans from exploitation.”