The Traffic

Nigerian Politician Busted by FBI in $3.3 Million Romance Scam

By Achimi Muktar

In a shocking twist, a newly elected Nigerian politician, Franklin Ikechukwu Nwadialo, has been arrested by the FBI at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Houston, for his alleged role in a $3.3 million romance scam targeting victims on popular dating sites.

The 40-year-old Nwadialo, who was recently appointed chairman of Ogbaru Local Government Area in Anambra State, Nigeria, is accused of masterminding an elaborate online dating scheme that spanned years and preyed on vulnerable individuals looking for love. According to federal authorities, Nwadialo posed as "Tony Giovanni" and other aliases to con unsuspecting victims out of millions, weaving a web of lies about military service and family tragedies.

The Romance Scam That Unraveled

Nwadialo’s downfall began when he was intercepted by FBI agents upon his arrival in the United States, following a flight from Nigeria. According to a statement from the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Washington, the politician was arrested on charges of wire fraud and is now facing a 14-count indictment for his alleged role in the romance scam.

Using fake profiles on dating platforms like Match, Zoosk, and Christian Café, Nwadialo, under the alias "Tony Giovanni," created a narrative of being a military officer stationed overseas. His victims, emotionally invested and trusting, sent money to help resolve fabricated crises, including family emergencies and military fines. In one case, he claimed that revealing his location while on a mission led to a $150,000 penalty. Another victim was duped into sending $330,000 to assist after Nwadialo’s supposed father passed away.

A Complex Web of Deceit

Nwadialo is said to have manipulated his victims over time, gaining their trust before exploiting their emotions with calculated stories of hardship. According to USA Today, he operated alongside unidentified co-conspirators in a sophisticated plot that saw millions siphoned off from unsuspecting individuals who believed they were helping a friend or future partner in need.

FBI investigators have been on the trail of Nwadialo and his associates for months, following the December indictment that linked him to wire fraud across state lines. His upcoming arraignment in the Western District of Washington will determine the extent of his punishment, but the damage inflicted on his victims—emotionally and financially—will undoubtedly leave scars.

Online Dating Dangers and a Public Figure's Fall

This arrest highlights the growing threat of romance scams, which are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Victims are often targeted through trusted dating apps and websites, where criminals build emotional bonds before orchestrating financial fraud. Nwadialo’s arrest also casts a harsh spotlight on his political career, as his position as chairman of Ogbaru LGA is now tainted by these serious allegations.

The FBI continues to urge caution for anyone using online dating services, advising users to be wary of individuals who claim to be in dire financial need or who refuse to meet in person. As Nwadialo’s case unfolds, more details are expected to emerge about the full extent of the romance scam, and whether any further charges will be filed against his associates.

This startling arrest reminds us of the dark side of online dating and how even those in public office can be caught in the web of international crime.