Osun Monarch and Nigerian Pastor Plead Guilty to 4.2 Million COVID-19 Relief Fraud in U.S.

In a significant development, Oba Joseph Oloyede, the Apetu of Ipetumodu in Osun State, Nigeria, and Nigerian pastor Edward Oluwasanmi have pleaded guilty to charges related to a 4.2 million COVID-19 relief fraud in the United States. The duo admitted to orchestrating a scheme that exploited U.S. pandemic relief programs, leading to their indictment on multiple counts, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, between April 2020 and February 2022, Oloyede and Oluwasanmi submitted fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) funds, programs established under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. They falsified tax and wage documents to secure funds for entities under their control, resulting in approximately 1.7 million for Oloyede's businesses and1.2 million for Oluwasanmi's. Additionally, Oloyede facilitated fraudulent applications for other individuals, obtaining an extra $1.3 million. 

Oba Oloyede, who holds dual Nigerian and American citizenship, was arrested on May 4, 2024, after a warrant was issued by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. His prolonged absence from Ipetumodu had raised concerns among his subjects, especially as he missed significant traditional festivals. 

The investigation, conducted by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Inspector General, is part of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee Fraud Task Force's efforts to combat COVID-19 relief fraud.

Both Oloyede and Oluwasanmi are awaiting sentencing, with potential penalties including substantial prison terms and asset forfeiture. Their guilty pleas underscore the U.S. government's commitment to holding individuals accountable for defrauding pandemic relief programs.

Note: This article is based on information available from official U.S. Department of Justice releases and other verified news sources as of April 2025.