Former Super Eagles forward Victor Ezeji has been arrested in Port Harcourt over allegations of fraud involving dud cheques worth ₦39.8m.
The 44-year-old, once regarded as one of the most decorated players in the Nigerian Professional Football League, was detained by operatives of the Rivers State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) on Monday after weeks of surveillance.
Ezeji and his wife, Celestina Onyemaeche Ezeji, had reportedly been on the run since July after allegedly purchasing 60,000 litres of diesel from businessman Dagogo Emmanuel and issuing cheques totalling ₦39.8m that later bounced.
Police sources confirmed to the Guardian that Ezeji was arrested following “weeks of surveillance and investigative efforts.” He is currently in custody at the SCID in Port Harcourt.
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The former Enyimba striker admitted signing the cheques but claimed the deal was managed by his wife, whose whereabouts remain unknown. Investigators say efforts are continuing to track her down.
When contacted, Ezeji’s brother, Chuks, confirmed the arrest but insisted the ex-footballer was not directly involved in the business deal. According to him, Mrs Ezeji allegedly conducted the transaction using her husband’s name, reports the Guardian.
The arrest has shocked Nigerian football circles, as Ezeji was long celebrated as a leading figure in the domestic game.
His career spanned almost two decades with successful spells at Sharks, Dolphins, Sunshine Stars, Heartland and Enyimba, where he lifted the CAF Champions League twice. He also had a stint abroad with Club Africain in Tunisia.
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At international level, Ezeji earned eight caps for Nigeria, scoring four goals.
