A storm of betrayal, fraud, and conspiracy has engulfed Barr. Okoi Obeten Okoi, a former legal counsel to Afriq Group of Companies. Once a trusted representative of the company, he now stands accused of orchestrating a multi-million-naira land fraud and an elaborate impersonation scheme that has left him branded a fugitive.
Afriq Group entrusted Okoi with millions to acquire 115 plots of land for its global farm project. As both lawyer and contractor, he handled negotiations with communities, verified ownership, approved payments, and even supplied bank account details for transactions.
However, when the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jesam Michael, returned from Canada to inspect the properties, suspicions arose. An independent survey, led by Mr. Felix Eze, revealed that the 115 plots claimed by Okoi were in fact only 80 plots, leaving 35 plots worth millions missing.
When confronted, Okoi insisted the full plots had been secured but later promised to replace the shortfall. He claimed to have purchased 15 additional plots, leaving 20 unaccounted for. Despite repeated assurances, he failed to deliver and eventually fled.
For years, Okoi had been on the company’s payroll, receiving salaries and allowances for every trip. He drafted deeds of assignment, validated ownership documents, and oversaw payments. His sudden denial of involvement in the missing plots, the company insists, amounts to outright betrayal.
Following a petition, police in Ugep invited him four times for questioning. He refused to appear, instead sending someone who falsely claimed to represent SAN Kanu Agabi’s chambers in Calabar—a fabrication, since no such office exists.
He was eventually arrested at Yakurr Guest House, Ugep. But in a shocking twist, he allegedly impersonated the Commissioner of Police (CP) in Cross River State over the phone, claiming the Inspector General had ordered his release. He was freed without proper documentation. The real CP later denied knowledge of the case, while investigations linked some officers, including Barr. Daniel Edet, to the impersonation plot.
Instead of clearing his name, Okoi reportedly resorted to blackmail, false publications, and personal attacks against the Afriq Group CEO. His actions, according to the company, speak volumes:
He received millions to buy land but delivered far fewer plots.
He misrepresented land figures and gave false assurances.
He fled when confronted with evidence.
He impersonated police authorities to evade justice.
Afriq Group maintains that this case is not just about one man but about the integrity of the company. Its management and legal team have vowed to recover every lost property and expose the fraud.
“If Barr. Okoi is innocent as he claims, why is he avoiding police arrest? Why impersonate the Commissioner of Police instead of responding to lawful invitations?” the company asked in a statement.
The case has now drawn the attention of multiple security agencies, including the DSS, NSA, and FCID, which are investigating the matter.
From lawyer to fugitive, the story of Barr. Okoi Obeten Okoi is a chilling reminder of how greed and betrayal can erode trust. Afriq Group’s message remains clear:
“We want our land back. We want justice. Barr. Okoi has betrayed trust, broken the law, and must face the consequences.”
