The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken into custody Adeniyi James, the General Overseer of CAC Freedom City Prophetic and Deliverance Ministry in Ilorin, Kwara State, on charges of defrauding a church member to the tune of N3,980,000. The arrest, which took place on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, follows allegations brought forward by Oluwole Babarinsa, the victim, against the cleric.
In a statement released by Dele Oyewale, the Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, it was revealed that Babarinsa, in a petition to the commission, recounted how James allegedly exploited him during a church program in 2021. James purportedly claimed to have received a divine revelation predicting Babarinsa’s imminent travel abroad. Subsequently, an agreement was made between the two parties to facilitate Babarinsa’s relocation to Canada.
Babarinsa disclosed that James, under the guise of assistance, demanded N1.7 million for facilitation and an additional N2.5 million for processing flight tickets and travel documents. To fulfill these demands, Babarinsa resorted to selling some of his assets and acquiring loans, amassing a total sum of N3,980,000, which he handed over to James.
However, as time passed without any progress on his relocation plans, Babarinsa grew suspicious and demanded a refund from James. Despite repeated appeals, James allegedly failed to repay the money, leaving Babarinsa in a state of financial distress.
The EFCC has stated that James will face legal proceedings following the conclusion of investigations into the matter. This arrest underscores the commission’s commitment to combating fraudulent activities and ensuring justice for victims of financial crimes.