Former Plateau Governor Joshua Dariye Duped of $290,000 by Fake Luxury Watch Dealers

Former Plateau State Governor, Joshua Dariye, who was previously convicted and jailed for corruption-related offences, has reportedly fallen victim to a high-profile fraud involving counterfeit luxury watches. According to reports, Joshua Dariye was swindled out of approximately $290,000 (over ₦460 million) by suspected fraudsters posing as legitimate luxury watch dealers. The incident adds another twist to the controversial public profile of the ex-governor, who was released from prison in 2022 after receiving a presidential pardon.

The Fraudulent Transaction

Sources disclosed that Joshua Dariye was approached by individuals who presented themselves as credible dealers in high-end luxury watches. Trusting their claims, he proceeded to purchase several watches at a staggering cost of $290,000. However, it was later discovered that the items supplied were counterfeit and grossly inferior to the authentic brands they were purported to be.

The fraudulent deal has since sparked discussions over how the former governor, who once controlled billions in state funds, could fall prey to such a scam. Security sources hinted that investigations are underway to track down the individuals behind the scheme, but no official arrests have been confirmed at this time.

Dariye’s History and Public Reaction

Joshua Dariye, who governed Plateau State from 1999 to 2007, was convicted in 2018 for diverting public funds. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison but later benefited from a controversial presidential pardon in 2022, which sparked widespread criticism among Nigerians who saw it as a setback in the country’s anti-corruption fight.

Public reactions to his recent ordeal have been mixed. While some Nigerians view the fraud as an ironic twist of fate, others consider it a reminder that financial crimes and fraud are not only targeted at unsuspecting citizens but can also ensnare high-profile figures. Social commentators have also pointed out that the case highlights Nigeria’s growing problem with sophisticated scams, even against wealthy individuals.

Broader Implications

This case comes at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with fraud and cybercrime, with several citizens facing arrests abroad for involvement in internet-related scams. Analysts suggest that such cases reinforce the urgent need for greater regulatory oversight, stronger law enforcement against fraud rings, and increased public awareness on how to identify and avoid scams.

For Joshua Dariye, the loss may serve as a personal financial setback, but for the wider Nigerian public, it raises renewed questions about accountability, integrity, and the vulnerabilities of both ordinary citizens and political elites to fraudulent schemes.