Former Plateau Governor Joshua Dariye Cries Out Over 400 Million Naira Fake Polo Watch Scam!

Former Plateau Governor Joshua Dariye Cries Out Over 400 Million Naira Fake Polo Watch Scam

Abuja, Nigeria – September 26, 2025
Former Governor of Plateau State and ex-Senator, Joshua Dariye, has reportedly petitioned the Nigeria Police over an alleged 290,000 (approximately N400 million) luxury wristwatch scam.

According to a report by Plateau News Watch, Dariye claims he was defrauded by two men who allegedly sold him a fake Polo-branded wristwatch, misrepresenting it as a high-end luxury timepiece.

The alleged incident, which has now sparked police investigation, involved the ex-governor making the massive payment for what he believed was an authentic Polo luxury watch, only to later discover the item was counterfeit.

⁠"It is unimaginable that I would be sold such a fake product at this cost," Dariye reportedly said in his petition, lamenting the emotional and financial trauma caused by the alleged scam.  
⁠(Source: [Plateau News Watch](https://plateaunewswatch.com/former-plateau-gov-dariye-cries-out-over-290k-fake-polo-watch-scam/))

Though details of the suspects’ identities and the exact timeline of the transaction remain undisclosed, police sources say investigations are ongoing to arrest those involved and possibly recover the funds.

This revelation comes years after Dariye’s 2018 conviction and later presidential pardon in 2022, a case that originally centered around misappropriation of public funds during his tenure as governor.

Broader Implications

•⁠ ⁠The incident once again brings attention to the luxury goods black market in Nigeria and across Africa, where fake high-end products are sold at premium prices to unsuspecting elites.
•⁠ ⁠It also raises questions about due diligence and how public figures engage with private vendors for such costly transactions.

Sele Media Africa is closely monitoring this case and will provide updates as the investigation unfolds.

About The Author

David Joshua Oliver

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Oliver David Joshua is a seasoned media professional with a passion for impactful journalism and strategic leadership. As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Sele Media Africa, he oversees the organization’s editorial vision, ensuring high standards of truth, balance, and bold reporting. Known for his sharp editorial eye and commitment to excellence, Oliver plays a key role in shaping the voice of Sele Media Africa across the continent. His leadership continues to drive innovation, credibility, and growth in Africa’s digital media space.

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