The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into Stella Ezinne Egotanwa, a 45-year-old businesswoman, for allegedly defrauding 21 individuals of ₦8.29 million under the guise of securing employment at a Psychiatric Hospital in Enugu State.

According to a statement released by the EFCC on October 20, the suspect reportedly collected funds from victims between December 28, 2025, and June 30, 2026, using various accounts linked to Point of Sale (POS) agents. The investigation was prompted by a complaint from 16 individuals who claimed that Egotanwa had taken ₦6.193 million from them with promises of job placements that never materialized.

The EFCC's inquiry revealed that five additional victims came forward, alleging they were defrauded of ₦2,098,200. This brought the total number of alleged victims to 21, with the total amount involved rising to ₦8,291,200. One victim recounted their experience, stating, "I paid the total sum of ₦1,050,000 on December 28, 2025, in good faith, believing the employment opportunity was genuine. However, after making the payment, the promised employment did not materialize, and I faced difficulties reaching her."

Egotanwa was apprehended by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra State on July 30, 2026, following the initial complaints. The EFCC noted that Egotanwa is already awaiting trial in a separate case involving a similar employment scam, raising concerns about her alleged pattern of fraudulent behavior.

The EFCC has stated that Egotanwa has admitted to the alleged offences and will be charged in court upon the completion of the ongoing investigation. The commission continues to urge anyone who has fallen victim to similar scams to come forward and report their experiences to aid in the fight against financial crimes in the country.