A Nigerian resident in Canada, Kayode Stephen, is facing allegations of defrauding numerous individuals of millions of naira by promising to secure certificates of sponsorship for care jobs in the United Kingdom. The victims were led to believe that securing these certificates was a crucial step in obtaining employment in the UK’s care sector.
Care workers, described as trained professionals supporting individuals in various aspects of daily life, including meals, socializing, physical activities, medical support, and toileting, are in demand in the UK. To secure such jobs, immigrants typically need a certificate of sponsorship, a document confirming an offer of employment as a carer in the country.
Despite promises from Kayode Stephen, who was formerly based in the UK, some Nigerians found themselves defrauded after paying him substantial sums, with no certificates of sponsorship delivered. This has led to significant financial losses for those seeking better opportunities abroad.
The issue has wider implications, as a December 2023 report by the International Organization for Migration revealed that over 1,000 Nigerians had fallen victim to similar scams involving fake employment letters and documents. The victims, having obtained visas based on these fraudulent documents, found themselves stranded in the UK when their applications were denied upon reaching their intended workplaces.
Victims of Kayode Stephen’s alleged fraud recount instances where they paid substantial amounts for training and certificates of sponsorship, only to receive fake documents. Some individuals faced visa bans, adding to the complexity of their predicament.
The allegations against Kayode Stephen highlight the challenges faced by Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad, the prevalence of fraudulent activities related to immigration processes, and the need for caution and due diligence when pursuing such endeavors. Law enforcement agencies in Nigeria and the UK are investigating the matter, and victims are seeking redress through legal channels.