The Nigeria High Commission in London has publicly distanced itself from Nurudeen Alowonle, also known as Benjamin Kuti and “Oluomo of Derby” on X, following allegations linking him to an ongoing skilled worker visa (Certificate of Sponsorship) fraud scandal in the United Kingdom.
In a statement responding to inquiries, the Mission made it clear that Alowonle does not represent it in any capacity, either official or unofficial.
“The Nigerian High Commission in London wishes to state categorically that it has no association whatsoever with Mr. Nurudeen Alowonle. While he is a Nigerian citizen and, like any other Nigerian, has access to the services of the High Commission, he does not represent the Mission in any official or unofficial capacity,” the statement read.
The clarification comes amid growing controversy surrounding Alowonle’s alleged involvement in a CoS scheme reportedly targeting Nigerians seeking work opportunities in the UK. Several victims have accused him of collecting thousands of pounds under the promise of securing employment sponsorships, only for the deals to allegedly collapse afterward.
Some individuals who spoke to investigators claimed they paid substantial sums—ranging from a few thousand to over £9,000—after being assured of job placements and sponsorship documentation. Many say they were later ignored or blocked after payments were made.
One alleged victim said she only discovered later that Alowonle had already been removed from a leadership role within the Nigerian community in the UK over similar accusations of financial misconduct.
Despite the allegations, Alowonle has reportedly denied wrongdoing in some exchanges, insisting that communication breakdowns and misunderstandings contributed to the disputes, while also promising refunds in certain cases.
However, multiple victims claim those promises were never fulfilled.
The scandal has triggered wider concern within sections of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK, with calls for greater scrutiny of individuals who leverage community influence for migration-related schemes.
UK authorities have not yet publicly confirmed any formal charges against Alowonle, but investigations linked to sponsorship abuse and related fraud cases continue to draw attention, as the Home Office intensifies efforts to clamp down on misuse of the skilled worker visa system.
