Nigeria Immigration Service Denies Connection as Cleric Scams Nigerians in US

Nigeria Immigration Service Denies Connection as Cleric Scams Nigerians in US

A growing number of Nigerians living in the United States have fallen victim to a suspected passport scam allegedly orchestrated by a Texas-based man identified only as “KO”, who claims to be a Prophet of the Most High God. The suspect reportedly defrauded citizens under the guise of a “Passport Intervention Program”, claiming connections with the Nigeria Consulate in Atlanta. KO is said to operate through a Texas-registered company, Global Tours and Partyride LLC, promoting fast-tracked passport processing and visa facilitation for fees ranging from $500 to over $800. Victims allege that after collecting payments — some as far back as October 2024 — KO ceased all communications and failed to deliver the promised passports or services.

Several victims have recounted how KO exploited the credibility of the Nigerian Consulate in Atlanta, advertising his services under the consulate’s name to gain trust. One victim, Tobi Jaji, said on social media: “I paid for my passport and never got it.” Another, Isaac Olorunisola, described KO as a “scammer of the highest order”, whose actions have damaged the reputation of pastors and community leaders. Attempts to locate KO at his provided Texas address or via phone were unsuccessful, with victims reporting that he disconnected his lines and disappeared. The scandal has also highlighted frustrations with consulate services, with victims claiming slow responses or ignored communications made them more vulnerable to the fraud. Some have attempted to seek recourse through the Better Business Bureau (BBB), local police, and Nigerian government channels, with limited success.

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The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has confirmed that KO is not an employee or authorized agent and has denounced his activities. A senior NIS official explained that passport applications are largely digital and should be completed through the official online portal, warning Nigerians not to rely on third-party intermediaries. “People have been using this online option successfully. You just visit our website and follow the necessary prompts. Do not pay anyone claiming to be our agent,” the official said. The service also indicated it is tracking KO and launching a sensitization campaign to inform Nigerians in the diaspora of legitimate procedures.

Immigration specialists advise Nigerians in the US to apply directly through official consulate channels and avoid any individuals promising expedited or guaranteed services. Payments should only be made online through verified portals. Victims are encouraged to report fraud attempts to both US authorities and the Nigeria Immigration Service to prevent further exploitation.

Nigeria Immigration Service Denies Connection as Cleric Scams Nigerians in US