The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Badagry Area Command, has uncovered a suspected fake university operating from a three-bedroom apartment in Ilado, Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State, rescuing 106 youths allegedly lured into the fraudulent scheme.

The operation, carried out in the early hours of Monday after days of surveillance and intelligence gathering, also led to the arrest of the suspected proprietor of the illegal institution.

 

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According to the NSCDC, the victims, mostly between the ages of 19 and 24, were recruited from different parts of Nigeria and neighbouring West African countries with promises of obtaining foreign university degrees through a purported distance-learning programme.

Investigations revealed that the institution had no official name, registration, signboard or recognised campus. Instead, it allegedly operated through social media and other online platforms, presenting itself as an accredited distance-learning centre affiliated with a foreign university.

The suspects reportedly collected tuition and admission fees ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦1.5 million from unsuspecting victims. Authorities also disclosed that the operation functioned like a pyramid scheme, where students were encouraged to recruit others in exchange for commissions and incentives.

 

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Speaking on the development, the NSCDC Badagry Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Gbenga Ekunola, expressed concern over the growing trend of academic fraud, noting that many parents were unaware of the true nature of the operation. One parent reportedly believed their child was in Badagry learning a vocational trade.

The NSCDC said all 106 rescued youths are currently being profiled for reunification with their families, while investigations have been expanded to identify and apprehend other collaborators and similar syndicates operating across the country.

The Corps assured that all those found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with relevant laws.