Osun: Police probe alleged N22.3m farmer grant fraud scheme

The Osun State Police Command has commenced an investigation into an alleged fraudulent scheme involving allegations of obtaining money by false pretences and stealing, following a petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police.

The command, in a statement issued on Monday by its Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Zungura, identified the suspect as 49-year-old Benjamin Segun Bright.

According to the police, “Preliminary findings indicated that Bright introduced an initiative known as the Farmer and Consumers Initiative in May 2026.

“The suspect allegedly claimed that he had been engaged by certain philanthropists to assist selected groups of farmers with grants of up to ₦3 million each.

“The police said that participants were required to pay a registration fee of ₦5,000 and introduce two additional persons into the programme, who were also expected to pay the same amount.

“Participants were reportedly promised an initial payment of ₦50,000 after the first week, followed by payments of ₦100,000 and ₦200,000 until the promised total grant of ₦3 million was reached,” it stated.

The command said approximately 4,000 people were reportedly registered through the complainants and had allegedly fulfilled the stated requirements.

According to the complainants, “A total of ₦22,329,050 was paid to the suspect in connection with the programme.”

The police said concerns later emerged over the legitimacy of the initiative, prompting the complainants to petition the Commissioner of Police and request an investigation into the matter.

“During the investigation, detectives also allegedly discovered that the suspect was involved in producing and distributing herbal and chemical products, including Reumax Syrup, Kaye Bitters, Ginger, Extra-Time Detoxpro, Herbal Blood Tonic, Atura Herbal Balm, Herbal Tea and Exotic Fruit Flavor,” the statement disclosed.

The command said it was investigating whether the products were manufactured, registered, approved and distributed in compliance with applicable government regulations.

The matter has also been referred to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, for necessary action.

CP Zungura advised members of the public to exercise caution and properly verify grant, empowerment, investment and similar programmes before registering or investing.

He said the case remained under investigation and that appropriate action would be taken in accordance with the law after the relevant processes were concluded.