UDISAM Transport Company Petitions IGP, Others Over Alleged Advance Fee Fraud by Ebonyi Ex-Commissioner
By Ben Nworie
A transport operator in Ebonyi State, UDISAM Mass Transit Company, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other security agencies over alleged advance fee fraud, criminal intimidation, and threats to life involving a former Commissioner of Local government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Cele Nepali and his brother, Tochukwu Nwali.
In petitions dated April 3 and April 22, 2026, and addressed through the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) and legal representatives, the company’s Director, Comrade James Igwe, accused a former commissioner for fraudulently obtaining money under false pretence.
According to the petitions, the transport company had earlier secured approval and paid required fees to the Ebonyi State Government for a loading bay at the Central Motor Park, Abakaliki, under the previous administration.
However, at the start of the current administration, the former commissioner allegedly approached the company, claiming authority over motor park operations and directed that payments be made through him and his agents.
The company stated that it subsequently paid N400,000 to individuals introduced as representatives of the former commissioner, believing the payment to be legitimate.
Trouble reportedly began when the company discovered inconsistencies surrounding the payment, after which the accused persons allegedly mobilized suspected hoodlums to disrupt its operations, obstruct business activities, and issue threats of violence.
The petitions further alleged that the individuals, some reportedly dressed in military uniforms, engaged in acts of intimidation, besieged the company’s premises, and posed a serious threat to the lives of the director, staff, and workers.
Contacting the accused former Commissioner, Hon. Nwali on phone, he explained that he was in a meeting and does not have time to say anything on the allegations.
Also contacted, Mr. Toochukwu Nwali whose account number has been used in receiving the money on behalf of the former Commissioner said that his lawyer would speak on his behalf.
He however noted that the petitioner was just making troubles with another person’s property for no just cause.
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(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, MAY 3RD 2026)
