Former Super Eagles forward and Nigerian football icon, Victor Ezeji, has been arrested by the Rivers State Police Command over an alleged diesel supply fraud involving bounced cheques worth nearly #40 million, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.
Ezeji, 44, was taken into custody by operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Port Harcourt on Monday, following weeks of investigation and surveillance.
According to police sources, the ex-Enyimba striker and his wife, Celestina, purchased 60,000 liters of diesel from a local businessman, Dagogo Emmanuel, in July, issuing cheques totaling #39.8 million, all of which were reported to have bounced.
While Ezeji was arrested this week, Celestina remains at large, with police confirming a manhunt has been launched to track her down.
Investigators told The Guardian that the former striker admitted to signing the cheques but denied being directly involved in the transaction, claiming the business deal was handled by his wife. His brother, Chuks Ezeji, also defended him, insisting the football legend was being implicated by association.
The development has sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s football community, where Ezeji is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished players in the domestic game.
Ezeji’s professional career spanned nearly two decades, featuring for Sharks, Dolphins, Sunshine Stars, Heartland, and most notably Enyimba, where he lifted back-to-back CAF Champions League titles. He also had a stint abroad with Tunisia’s Club Africain and earned eight caps for the Super Eagles, scoring four goals.
Beyond his exploits on the pitch, Ezeji has been known for championing youth development and grassroots football initiatives, earning a reputation as a respected role model.
Police authorities have urged Celestina Ezeji to turn herself in for questioning as investigations continue.