Former Cross River Governorship Candidate Arrested in Connection to N607m Patricia Cyber Attack

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has apprehended Wilfred Bonse, a former gubernatorial candidate from Cross River, in connection with a security breach and financial fraud affecting Patricia, a cryptocurrency firm.

Bonse, who contested the 2023 Cross River governorship election under the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), is accused of conspiring to launder N50 million, part of the fraudulent diversion of N607 million from Patricia’s accounts. Muyiwa Adejobi, NPF Public Relations Officer (PRO), revealed that the funds were received through Bonse’s bank account via a cryptocurrency wallet.

Adejobi stated on Friday that the arrest followed extensive efforts by the police, specifically the National Cybercrime Center (NPF-NCCC), in investigating the intricate financial fraud reported by Patricia. The case involves criminal conspiracy, unauthorized modification of computer systems, network data, and the unlawful diversion of funds exceeding N200 million.

“The investigation reveals Wilfred Bonse’s involvement in the complex crime, conspiring to launder N50 million originating from the fraudulent diversion of N607 million from Patricia Technology company’s account to his bank account through a cryptocurrency wallet,” Adejobi explained.

While this is not Bonse’s first involvement in cyber fraud, Patricia’s founder, Hanu Agbodje, expressed relief at the arrest, alleging that the politician was instrumental in “stealing N607 million from Patricia.” Agbodje assured the public that all individuals involved in the criminal conspiracy would face justice.

In February, Bonse was accused of benefiting at least N40 million from a cyber fraud scheme executed by a group known as ‘The Syndicate.’ Agbodje emphasized the ongoing commitment to repaying Patricia users, stating that recovery from this incident would alleviate concerns for affected users.

“The case is still being investigated; the hackers used politicians to launder the stolen money. All of whom would be brought to the book. One by One,” Agbodje affirmed. “My commitment remains to Patricia users. Repayment started on the 20th of November and will continue until every user is reached.”