Gov Abiodun Ally, Bidemi Rufai, Released from U.S. Prison After Fraud Conviction, Faces Imminent Deportation

Bidemi Rufai, a close associate of Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, has been released from a United States prison after serving time for a multimillion-dollar fraud conviction. Rufai, 47, was released on November 15, 2024, from the Federal Correctional Institution in Fort Dix, New Jersey. His release comes three months earlier than his original February 2025 release date, following the approval of a motion he filed citing revised sentencing guidelines.

Rufai, widely known by his alias “Elele Ruffy,” is now set to be deported to Nigeria as part of the terms of his plea agreement. U.S. correctional documents indicate that his Nigerian passport was returned to him on October 21, 2024, to facilitate his deportation process.

In 2022, Rufai was sentenced to 60 months in prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The conviction stemmed from a large-scale tax fraud scheme that targeted U.S. government agencies in multiple states. Prosecutors in Tacoma, Washington, presented over 100,000 pages of evidence against Rufai, outlining his role in the conspiracy. His sentence required him to pay $607,000 in restitution to the U.S. government.

Rufai’s fraudulent activities attracted significant attention, particularly because of his prominent social status and connections in Nigeria. For years, he was reputed to be a key figure in internet fraud circles in Lagos and Ogun States before expanding his operations to the United States. His activities drew comparisons to other high-profile Nigerian cybercriminals such as Ramon ‘Hushpuppi’ Abbas and Jacob Olalekan Ponle, alias Mr. Woodberry, both of whom are currently serving lengthy prison sentences in the U.S.

Beyond his prison sentence and financial penalties in the U.S., Rufai has faced repercussions in Nigeria. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seized his mansion in the Lekki area of Lagos and froze his bank accounts. These actions underscore the international scope of his fraudulent schemes and the collaborative efforts to address his crimes.

Rufai’s release has reignited scrutiny over his relationship with Governor Dapo Abiodun, who previously appointed him as an aide in Ogun State. It remains unclear whether Rufai will attempt to resume his role or maintain any association with the governor. This connection has been controversial, especially as Governor Abiodun himself has faced past allegations of fraud. Over three decades ago, he was reportedly arrested for fraud in Florida, though the specifics of his punishment remain undisclosed.