No fool like an old fool!

The persistent threat of 419 scams continues to plague Nigeria, with perpetrators achieving success both domestically and internationally. A recent case highlights the vulnerability of even well-meaning individuals, as exemplified by the experience of Jade, a respected former media personality and investor.

Jade received a call from someone claiming to be a former cameraman she had worked with years ago. The scammer flattered her, expressing admiration for her career and calling her an inspiration. This initial contact established a false sense of familiarity and trust. A few weeks later, the same individual called again, claiming to have secured a lucrative contract to supply paper to a ministry. He presented it as a partnership opportunity, stating he was short on cash and needed her investment.

Initially wary, Jade was reassured by the scammer's feigned hurt at her distrust and his explanation of how they could manage delivery to her home. He suggested that the contract owners could collect the items from her premises after paying the balance. This seemed reasonable, and she agreed to contribute her share of N950,000 to the contract cost.

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I had this call out of the blues on my mobile phone. The GSM menace again, I muttered to myself. A fairly familiar voice said he called to congratulate me on my recent sketch appearance in a TV play. He went on to tell me he was one of the cameramen that worked closely with me when I was working with a TV station. On and on he went about how proud he was of me and how I would for ever be an inspiration to people like him. I felt lifted after the cal. It was encouraging to know that there were people out there I could inspire.

The following morning, a stranger claiming to be the "third partner" contacted Jade. He arranged to meet her and, during the drive to their "office," further elaborated on the contract. The office itself was described as posh and impressive, further solidifying Jade's belief in the legitimacy of the venture. However, she insisted on seeing the delivered goods before releasing her cheque.

The next day, a large lorry arrived at her house, unloading packed materials. After the delivery, Jade handed over her cheque. The scammer then instructed her on what identification to demand when the "owners" came to collect the items, a detail that likely served to further delay any realization of the fraud.

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Oh, auntie, you don’t trust me. I don’t blame you with all these ‘Gba jue’ (419) people around. I don’t know how big your premises is – we could deliver the realms to your place from where the owners could come and take them as soon as they’ve paid the balance of the contact sum.