Nigerian Sentenced in U.S. to 42 Months for Romance Scam Fraud

By WorldWire News | June 19, 2025

US Court Sentenced Otaniyen Iduozee.

A United States federal court in Wisconsin has sentenced Otaniyen Iduozee, a Nigerian national, to 42 months in prison for his role in laundering proceeds from a multimillion-dollar international romance scam. Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Frohling announced the sentencing on Wednesday, following Iduozee’s guilty plea to conspiracy to commit money laundering under U.S. law (18 U.S.C. §1956(h)).

According to court documents, the elaborate scheme involved creating fake online identities to deceive victims often elderly Americans into believing they were in genuine romantic relationships. Once trust was established, victims were manipulated into sending money to address fictitious emergencies or investment opportunities. These “loans” were never repaid, and many victims suffered devastating financial losses.

Iduozee, who entered the U.S. on a student visa, played a key role as a money launderer in the operation. He created and managed fraudulent bank accounts through which victims’ funds were routed and ultimately transferred overseas, including to Nigeria. Court records detail how he structured transactions to disguise the source of the money and facilitate international transfers.

At the sentencing, Chief Judge Pamela Pepper highlighted the emotional and financial toll such schemes have on victims. Iduozee has agreed to be deported from the United States after completing his prison term.

“These scams inflict deep financial and emotional harm,” Frohling stated. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of such crimes and the commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.”

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Taibleson and Carter Stewart.