The Digest:
Nigerian pastor Edward Oluwasanmi has been sentenced to 27 months in U.S. prison for his role in a $4.2 million COVID-19 relief fraud. He defrauded the U.S. government alongside a local Nigerian figure, Joseph Oloyede.
Key Points
- Oluwasanmi defrauded the U.S. government's COVID-19 relief programs between 2020–2022
- Collaborated with Joseph Oloyede, a Nigerian traditional ruler
- Both submitted fraudulent applications for PPP and EIDL loans
- Oluwasanmi’s company, Dayspring, helped channel funds for personal use
- Judge Christopher Boyko sentenced Oluwasanmi on July 2, 2025
- A $1.3 million forfeiture to the U.S. government was ordered
- Oloyede’s case remains unresolved as he awaits judgment
- Plea agreements were entered by both defendants in February 2025
This high-profile fraud case shines a light on the misuse of relief funds meant for COVID-19 recovery. The sentencing and financial penalties reflect the U.S. government’s firm stance on financial crimes.
Sources: Vanguard, Linda Ikeji,
