Nigerian National Sentenced to Over Three Years in U.S. for Fraudulent Student Visa and PhD Admission

A Nigerian national Mr Mercy Ojedeji, has been sentenced to 41 months in a U.S. federal prison after being found guilty of using forged documents to gain university admission and a student visa, which were later exploited for criminal activities.

The 26-year-old reportedly submitted falsified academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and language proficiency reports to secure a place in a PhD chemistry program at the University of Missouri in 2023. Upon arrival, he did not attend classes or participate in any research work, leading the university to terminate his admission in January 2024. His student visa was subsequently revoked the following month.

Authorities revealed that instead of pursuing his studies, he collaborated with an American woman serving time for fraud. Together, they acted as intermediaries for fraudsters in Nigeria, facilitating the transfer of illegal proceeds to the country.

Investigators seized multiple packages, with some containing tens of thousands of dollars, while over 190 parcels were reportedly linked to their operations.

Using documents obtained through his fraudulent visa, the Nigerian national was able to open a bank account and obtain a social security number, which were used to channel funds and secure housing.

He had previously pleaded guilty to counts of unlawful use of fraudulent immigration documents and wire fraud, acknowledging that the submission of counterfeit materials enabled him to secure tuition waivers exceeding $49,000.

The U.S. District Court in Saint Louis imposed a sentence of 41 months imprisonment. Following the completion of his term, he may face deportation to Nigeria.

Victims of the scheme expressed distress over their financial losses, highlighting cases where essential services were disrupted due to funds lost to the fraud.

This case underscores continued vigilance by U.S. authorities against international fraud networks exploiting student visas and educational institutions.