LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna has denied reports alleging his involvement in a $75,000 romance scam, describing the claims as false, malicious and without evidence.
The controversy began after reports surfaced online claiming that the actor was invited and investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in collaboration with the FBI over an alleged $75,000 romance scam.
The report alleged that a 49-year-old American woman, identified as Kimberly Ann, filed a complaint against Ogbonna, claiming she had been in an online relationship with him since 2025.
Reacting to the claims through his Instagram Story, Ogbonna rejected the allegations and said he has no involvement in any form of fraudulent activity.
“This report is completely false, malicious, and without any factual basis. I don’t support, or participate in any form of internet fraud, romance scams, or any other fraudulent activity,” he wrote.
The actor also warned members of the public about impersonators who use his name, pictures and identity to create fake online accounts.
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According to Ogbonna, the alleged scam reports are not the first time his identity has been misused by individuals attempting to deceive people online.
“Unfortunately, this is not the first time my name, image, and identity have been used by unknown individuals operating fake social media accounts to deceive unsuspecting members of the public,” he disclosed.
He further clarified that he has never authorised anyone to represent him online, request money from people on his behalf or engage in private conversations while pretending to be him.
“I have never authorized anyone to represent me online, solicit money on my behalf, or engage in private conversations pretending to be me,” Ogbonna stated.
The actor therefore urged the public to remain cautious when interacting with accounts claiming to be celebrities, warning against falling victim to impersonators and catfish accounts.
“Please remain vigilant and be extremely careful of impersonators and catfish accounts that exploit my identity to scam unsuspecting people,” he added.
