Nigerian authorities uncover massive fraud over bank loans

Special fraud police investigations into bank practices in Nigeria have uncovered evidence of widespread corruption and deception over loans. The probe comes in the wake of the country�s multi-billion dollar bank rescue, and could result in criminal charges against some of Nigeria�s most influential figures. �What we are dealing with is very sensitive. We are dealing with people, debtors, and this is a very serious situation. It borders on economic sabotage of this country,� said Farida Waziri, chair of the investigating commission. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) gave defaulting debtors until the end of Tuesday to come up with their payments, and those still owing could now have to give up assets or face arrest. Five of the country�s banks in threat of collapse were bailed out by the Central Bank last week. Senior managers were fired and many are now in custody or on the run from authorities. The Central Bank has published a complete list of more than 200 companies, individual and state debtors and it is believed they collectively owe US$5 billion.