Nigerians React to Report on Jeffrey Epstein's Abandoned Oil Deal
Nigerians have taken to social media platforms to express their reactions following a revealing report about convicted American financier Jeffrey Epstein's brief involvement with Nigeria's crude oil sector. The report, published by Premium Times, details how Epstein considered a lucrative oil trading opportunity in Nigeria but ultimately backed out over fears of being defrauded.
Details of Epstein's Nigerian Oil Deal Proposal
The report reveals that Jeffrey Epstein, before his conviction and death in 2019, was contacted by an individual identified as David Stern. Stern informed Epstein about the potential to make significant profits through Nigerian crude oil trading and urged him to contact another person referenced only as PA. According to the email exchanges detailed in the report, PA then asked Epstein to meet with individuals who had access to Nigerian oil, suggesting they could make approximately $6 million by selling it to China or other buyers.
However, Epstein expressed skepticism about the arrangement from the beginning. In his email response to David Stern, Epstein wrote "This seems very fishy" and showed little confidence in proceeding with the deal. The report indicates that Epstein's primary concern was the possibility of being cheated or scammed, leading him to ultimately withdraw from the proposed arrangement.
Social Media Reactions from Nigerians
As news of Epstein's abandoned Nigerian oil deal spread, numerous Nigerians shared their thoughts on social media, often with humor and cultural references. Samisu Jiboh commented "The fear of Nigerians is the beginning of wisdom. So even devil himself Dey fear Naija", referencing the country's reputation in certain circles.
Other reactions included:
- Yahaya Jega: "Dem go sell bonny island for him and later he found out he was scammed? The thief is always afraid of thieves."
- Bashir: "Even the devil fears Naija, who de this werey Epstein we have a lot of Chukuma and Chinaza here in naija?"
- Abdullahi: "If we are not super power by military might, at least we are super power by fraudster gangs. One day we will use it for better. At least Yahoo boys have made name for us."
- Waziri Abba: "Epstein revelations are sweeter than any football live show or updates nowadays."
Some commenters questioned the veracity of the report, with Aliyu asking "Why are you not sharing the email? May be your story is concocted." while others like Hamza connected it to broader conspiracy theories about Epstein's activities.
Broader Context of Epstein's International Dealings
This revelation about Epstein's Nigerian oil dealings comes amid ongoing disclosures about his international financial activities. In related developments, other reports have shown how Epstein's associates explored various international financial opportunities, including attempts to access Libyan funds frozen in foreign countries.
The report also arrives alongside continued scrutiny of Epstein's connections to high-profile individuals. Recently, Bill Gates publicly addressed allegations regarding his relationship with Epstein, denying wrongdoing while expressing regret for ever meeting the convicted financier. Gates' former wife Melinda French Gates stated that the friendship caused significant strain in their marriage.
This episode highlights the complex perceptions surrounding international business dealings with Nigeria, particularly in the oil sector which has historically been plagued by transparency issues and occasional fraudulent schemes. The social media reactions reflect both pride and concern about Nigeria's international reputation in business circles.
