Internet Fraud Kingpin Tunde Ayeni Sentenced to 10 Years in U.S. Prison, Ordered to Pay $20M in Restitution

By Achimi Muktar

The United States District Court for the Southern District of Alabama has handed down a 10-year prison sentence to Nigerian internet fraudster Babatunde Ayeni. Alongside the hefty sentence, Ayeni has been ordered to pay nearly $20 million in restitution to the victims of his elaborate scams, according to court documents obtained by Peoples Gazette.

Ayeni, who pleaded guilty to the fraud charges, received a 120-month sentence from Judge Terry Moorer on October 31, 2024. Although Ayeni claimed to have ceased fraudulent activities since April 2019, the court determined the extent of his crimes warranted a significant penalty. Judge Moorer also ruled that Ayeni must pay $19,599,969 to the individuals and entities he defrauded, although the court waived interest payments due to Ayeni's inability to pay.

The restitution is to be shared among Ayeni and his co-conspirators, Feyisayo Oyindola Oginsanwo and Yusuf Olasunkanmi Lasisi, who were also implicated in the fraudulent schemes.

Deportation and Supervision: What’s Next for Ayeni?

After serving his sentence, U.S. immigration authorities will decide Ayeni’s fate. He may face deportation to Nigeria or remain in the United States under a three-year supervised release with strict conditions.

A Growing List of Convictions

Ayeni's sentencing adds to a growing list of Nigerians convicted for internet fraud in the United States. High-profile cases include notorious fraudsters like Ramon "Hushpuppi" Abbas, Olalekan "Mr. Woodberry" Jacob, and Abidemi Rufai, an associate of Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was released last month after serving his sentence.

This case highlights ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to clamp down on international fraud syndicates that exploit victims globally. Ayeni’s actions not only tarnished his reputation but also further contributed to the stigma faced by law-abiding Nigerians abroad.

Stay tuned for updates on Ayeni’s deportation ruling and the broader implications of his conviction on international fraud prevention.