IK Ogbonna Denies Alleged $75,000 Romance Scam, Warns Fans About Fake Social Media Accounts

Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna has dismissed reports linking him to an alleged $75,000 romance scam and claims that he is being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in collaboration with the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The allegation surfaced on social media on Friday, with reports claiming the actor had been invited for questioning over the alleged fraud.

Reacting in a statement shared via his Instagram Story, Ogbonna described the report as false, malicious and completely unfounded, insisting that it had no factual basis.

The actor explained that the incident was part of a recurring problem in which fraudsters create fake social media accounts using his name, photographs and identity to deceive unsuspecting members of the public.

According to him, he has no involvement in internet fraud, romance scams or any other criminal activity and has never authorised anyone to act on his behalf online.

"My attention has been drawn to a false story circulating online, alleging that I have been invited to be questioned by the EFCC and the FBI over a romance scam.

"This report is completely false, malicious, and without any factual basis."

Ogbonna said impersonators have repeatedly exploited his identity to scam people, stressing that he does not solicit money from fans or engage in private conversations through unofficial accounts.

He advised members of the public to interact only with his verified social media accounts, warning that any account bearing his name without a verification badge is fake.

"I would like to state once again that I do not support, encourage, or participate in any form of internet fraud, romance scams, or any other fraudulent activity.

"I have never authorised anyone to represent me online, solicit money on my behalf, or engage in private conversations pretending to be me."

The actor also clarified that he does not operate secret, backup or private social media accounts and urged anyone communicating with such accounts to stop immediately.

"All of my official social media accounts are VERIFIED. If an account claiming to be me is not verified, it is fake. I do not operate secret, backup, or private accounts to communicate with fans."

Ogbonna further cautioned fans against sending money, gifts, investments or any form of financial assistance to anyone claiming to be him online.

He urged the public to remain vigilant, verify information before sharing it, and report fake accounts impersonating him.

The actor also thanked supporters who take time to confirm stories before circulating them, saying such vigilance helps combat misinformation and protects innocent people from falling victim to online fraud.

"I sincerely appreciate everyone who takes the time to verify information before believing or sharing it. Together, we can help curb the spread of misinformation and protect innocent people from online fraud. Thank you for your continued love, trust, and support."