Nigerians living in the United States have raised concerns over an alleged passport scam involving a Texas-based man accused of collecting thousands of dollars from unsuspecting applicants under the pretext of facilitating Nigerian passport services.
The suspect, identified only as “KO,” is said to have presented himself as a clergyman and “Prophet of the Most High God.” He reportedly operated through a company known as Global Tours and Partyride LLC, promoting what he described as a “Passport Intervention Program.”
Members of the Nigerian diaspora claim the scheme targeted individuals seeking passport issuance or renewal, with victims paying between $500 and $800 for services that were never delivered.
Officials of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have distanced the agency from the suspect, stressing that he is neither an employee nor an authorised vendor of the service.
A senior official of the NIS, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to address the media, confirmed that the agency is tracking the suspect. However, the official noted that investigations have been complicated because the suspect reportedly abandoned his known phone line and address.
According to the official, the situation highlights a recurring problem where some Nigerians bypass official procedures in search of shortcuts, even though passport application processes have largely been digitised.
“Most of our processes are online. Applicants can complete the forms and make payments digitally without dealing with any individual. Nigerians both at home and abroad already use this system successfully,” the official explained.
He added that the immigration service does not require applicants to pay money to any agent or staff member, urging Nigerians to use only the official channels for passport and visa services.
The NIS also disclosed plans to intensify public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the proper digital procedures and to discourage dealings with unofficial intermediaries.
Meanwhile, several victims have shared their experiences publicly, accusing the suspect of exploiting the reputation of the Consulate General of Nigeria in Atlanta to gain credibility for his operations.
One of the victims, Tobi Jaji, wrote on social media that he paid for a passport but never received it. Another complainant, Isaac Olorunisola, warned others to be wary of the suspect, describing him as a “scammer of the highest order.”
Many victims said the suspect collected payments as far back as October 2024 before allegedly cutting off communication. Attempts to serve him court papers in Arlington, Texas, reportedly failed after he could not be located at the address provided.
The controversy has also drawn criticism toward the Atlanta consulate, with some victims claiming that poor responsiveness from the mission created opportunities for third-party fraudsters.
Another victim, Declan Rawlings, said he has been waiting for his passport since October 2024 and has been unable to reach the alleged agent by phone.
Some victims have reported the matter to the Better Business Bureau and explored legal options, though many expressed frustration over the slow pace of action and limited support from authorities.
Despite their frustrations, several affected individuals expressed confidence that Nigeria’s Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, would intervene once fully informed of the situation. They urged authorities to investigate the allegations and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
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