Anambra State LG Chairman Nwadialoor Jailed 5 Years In The US Over $3.5m Romance Scam

The Chairman of Ogbaru Local Government Area in Anambra State, Franklin Ikechukwu Nwadialo, has been sentenced to five years in a U.S. federal prison for orchestrating a long‑running online romance scam that defrauded victims of more than $3.5 million.

Nwadialo, 42, was arrested at a Texas airport in 2024 and later indicted on 14 counts of wire fraud linked to the scheme, which targeted emotionally vulnerable individuals many widowed, divorced, or grieving.

U.S. District Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright described the crimes as “devastating,” noting that victims suffered not only severe financial losses but also shame, depression, and isolation. Prosecutors said Nwadialo operated under fake identities often posing as a military officer named “Giovanni” on dating platforms .

For over 15 years, he fabricated emergencies, military fines, funeral expenses, and investment opportunities to manipulate victims into sending money. Some victims lost their life savings, homes, and financial stability.