The third Prosecution Witness (PW3) in the trial of Nwachi Chidozie Kingsley testified before Justice U.P. Kekemeke of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, detailing how Kingsley and his family allegedly defrauded her of $370,000.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Kingsley on a two-count charge of stealing, obtaining by false pretense, and possessing fake documents. One charge states Kingsley fraudulently obtained $370,000 from Nicole Kierulff Sayers under the guise of financing a contract with the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, a claim he knew was false.
Nicole Kierulff Sayers, an American lawyer from Oregon, testified that Kingsley initially contacted her on Facebook, claiming they were part of the same spiritual organization. Their interactions soon escalated into a romantic relationship. Kingsley requested money from Sayers, alleging threats to his life if he did not secure funds for a purported government contract. Trusting him, Sayers transferred $15,000 with a promise of repayment within 45 days.
Sayers recounted transferring additional funds, eventually totaling $40,000, before traveling to Nigeria in March 2022. She met Kingsley’s family, including his parents, siblings, and daughter, who all thanked her for helping Kingsley. This familial involvement further convinced her of the legitimacy of Kingsley’s claims.
Despite numerous assurances, Kingsley repeatedly left Sayers alone during her visit. Over the next year, she continued to send money, believing his fabricated stories of medical emergencies and contractual obligations. The total amount sent reached over $200,000 by December 2023. Kingsley’s alleged attempts to wire money back to Sayers were also fraudulent.
Realizing the deception, Sayers confronted Kingsley, who failed to return any funds. The trial will continue on November 7, 2024.
