Police secure $1m oil fraud conviction

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has secured the conviction of David Udensik, also known as Dr. Jacob Bello, for his role in an international oil-related fraud valued at over $1 million.

The Federal High Court in Abuja handed down the judgment on October 22, 2025, following a petition from a U.S.-based energy company alleging that Udensik defrauded it under the pretense of facilitating crude oil transactions in Nigeria.

Investigations by the NPF National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) revealed that between 2018 and 2023, Udensik led a sophisticated network that forged documents from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and other regulatory bodies.

These counterfeit documents and seals were used to deceive the foreign company into releasing funds, which were then diverted to accounts linked to Udensik and his associates.

“Forensic analysis confirmed the documents were entirely counterfeit.

“The court convicted Udensik on charges of forgery, obtaining by false pretence, and money laundering,” said NPF Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin.

The court also ordered the forfeiture of assets worth hundreds of millions of naira, including real estate, to facilitate restitution to the defrauded company.

Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun commended officers involved, describing the investigation and prosecution as “a testament to the Force’s commitment to professionalism and justice.”

In a related development, the NPF dismissed as “false and defamatory” reports alleging that the IGP intervened in the admission process for the 2025/2026 Nigeria Police Academy (POLAC) session.

The Force clarified that admissions remain transparent, merit-based, and guided by due process, with 370 candidates admitted — ten per state — based on academic, physical, and character benchmarks.

The NPF emphasized that recommendations do not influence final selections.

“Under the watch of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, no name is smuggled, no slot is sold, and no standard is compromised,” the statement read.

The Force warned the media outlet to desist from spreading false information or face potential legal action, including defamation proceedings.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains professional, transparent, and unwavering in its commitment to merit, accountability, and national security,” Hundeyin concluded.