Three Nigerian Jailed in US OVER COVID 19 FRAUD

Washington, D.C., August 22, 2025 –

A U.S. Federal Court has sentenced three young Nigerians to lengthy prison terms for their role in a sophisticated COVID-19 unemployment fraud scheme that siphoned more than $520,000 from government programs designed to support struggling Americans during the pandemic.

The convicts – Kamaldeen Karaole (24), Stephen Olamigoke (23), and Johnson Omodusonu (24) – were arrested after an extensive investigation revealed their participation in filing fraudulent unemployment claims across multiple states in the U.S.

According to court documents, the trio exploited vulnerabilities in state unemployment systems by using stolen identities and falsified details to access pandemic relief funds. Prosecutors said the scheme not only deprived genuine beneficiaries of support but also undermined the integrity of emergency financial assistance programs.

In delivering judgment, the presiding judge emphasized that the actions of the defendants reflected “a calculated abuse of trust during a global crisis,” adding that deterrent sentencing was necessary to discourage similar crimes.

Sentences

• Kamaldeen Karaole – sentenced to 5 years and ordered to repay $180,000.

• Stephen Olamigoke – sentenced to 4 years, with restitution of $160,000.

• Johnson Omodusonu – sentenced to 4 years, with restitution of $180,000.

International Concern

The case has drawn attention in Nigeria and abroad, sparking discussions on cyber-enabled fraud and its impact on the country’s global image. U.S. authorities confirmed ongoing collaboration with Nigerian law enforcement agencies to dismantle cross-border fraud rings.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Justice noted:

“COVID relief was meant to provide urgent support to families in need. When fraudsters hijack these programs, they steal not just money, but hope. These sentences send a strong message that such crimes will not go unpunished.”

Background

Since 2020, U.S. authorities have uncovered multiple fraud cases linked to international syndicates targeting COVID-19 relief programs. The Nigerian government has also been under pressure to curb online financial crimes that tarnish the country’s reputation.