The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially declared Mr. Seun Ogunbambo, the Managing Director of Fargo Petroleum and Gas Limited, wanted in connection with a massive fraud case involving N976,653,110.28. The declaration was made public on June 13, 2025, following Ogunbambo’s alleged evasion of justice after jumping bail during his trial. The EFCC is seeking public assistance to locate him, urging anyone with information to contact their offices or report through designated channels.
Ogunbambo faces charges related to fraudulent activities under the Petroleum Support Fund, a government initiative designed to stabilize fuel prices in Nigeria. According to the EFCC, Ogunbambo and his co-defendants, Mamman Nasir Ali and Christian Taylor, were accused of defrauding the Nigerian government through false claims for oil subsidies. The trio allegedly misrepresented transactions to siphon funds, leading to significant financial losses for the state.
The case was heard before a Lagos State High Court, where Ogunbambo was standing trial alongside Ali and Taylor. On May 27, 2025, the court convicted Ali and Taylor, sentencing each to 14 years in prison for their roles in the scam. Ogunbambo, however, failed to appear in court, prompting the EFCC to issue a warrant for his arrest and declare him a fugitive.
The EFCC has provided a detailed description of Ogunbambo to aid in his apprehension. He is described as light-complexioned, fluent in English and Yoruba, and his last known address is 2 Olamiyuyan Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos. The agency emphasized that Ogunbambo’s whereabouts are currently unknown, and his failure to surrender has intensified efforts to bring him to justice.
The public is encouraged to report any information regarding Ogunbambo’s location to the EFCC’s offices in Abuja, Lagos, or other major cities across Nigeria. Alternatively, tips can be submitted via the EFCC’s hotline at +2348093322644 or through email at info@efcc.gov.ng. The agency has assured confidentiality for informants and stressed the importance of public cooperation in combating financial crimes.
This case highlights the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to tackle corruption within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, a critical component of the nation’s economy. The Petroleum Support Fund, intended to cushion the impact of fuel price fluctuations, has been a target for fraudulent activities, with several high-profile cases uncovered in recent years. Ogunbambo’s alleged actions represent a significant breach of trust, undermining public confidence in such programs.
The EFCC’s pursuit of Ogunbambo underscores its commitment to holding individuals accountable, regardless of their status or influence. The agency has successfully prosecuted numerous cases involving subsidy fraud, recovering billions of naira in stolen funds. However, Ogunbambo’s evasion poses a challenge to these efforts, prompting a nationwide manhunt to ensure he faces the full weight of the law.
Fargo Petroleum and Gas Limited, under Ogunbambo’s leadership, was implicated in submitting falsified documents to secure subsidy payments, which were then diverted for personal gain. The EFCC’s investigation revealed a sophisticated scheme involving inflated claims and non-existent transactions, designed to exploit vulnerabilities in the subsidy system. This case adds to the growing list of fraudulent activities uncovered in the oil sector, prompting calls for stricter oversight and reforms.
The conviction of Ali and Taylor serves as a warning to others involved in similar schemes, demonstrating that the EFCC is relentless in its pursuit of justice. Their 14-year sentences reflect the severity of the crime and the agency’s determination to deter future offenses. Ogunbambo’s continued absence, however, remains a significant hurdle in fully resolving the case.
The EFCC has reiterated its appeal to the public, emphasizing that community involvement is critical in tracking down fugitives like Ogunbambo. By providing a clear description and multiple reporting channels, the agency hopes to leverage public support to apprehend him swiftly. The EFCC’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to combat economic crimes and restore integrity to Nigeria’s financial systems.
Anyone with credible information is urged to act promptly, as Ogunbambo’s capture is a priority for the EFCC. The agency’s proactive approach, including public announcements and detailed suspect descriptions, reflects its commitment to transparency and accountability. As the search continues, the EFCC remains vigilant, determined to ensure that no one escapes justice in the fight against corruption.