Full Breakdown
Nigerian Monarch Convicted of Medicaid Fraud in the U.S.
1/20/2026, 6:07:08 AM
Overview of the Case
Dr. Ekelekamchukwu Alphonsus Ngwadom, a Nigerian traditional ruler and psychotherapist based in North Carolina, has been convicted of Medicaid fraud for submitting false claims for therapy services that were never provided to minors. Ngwadom, 61, is a professor of Psychology and Sociology at the University of Mount Olive and was crowned king of Mbubu in the Amiri Kingdom in April 2021.
Details of the Fraud
Between February 18, 2020, and March 18, 2021, Ngwadom submitted fraudulent claims totaling $72,014.66 to Alliance Health, a North Carolina health insurance provider managing state-funded and Medicaid plans. These claims were for behavioral health services purportedly delivered to 27 Medicaid patients, including children, which were never rendered. The fraudulent activity was uncovered after Alliance Health flagged suspicious payments, prompting an investigation by the North Carolina Department of Justice and the State Bureau of Investigation.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The investigation revealed that Ngwadom billed for overlapping services and for an after-school program that had been suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Parents of the minors involved confirmed they had not received any services from Ngwadom or his practice, Almarch Counseling Services. On January 13, 2025, U.S. Attorney General Jeff Jackson announced that Ngwadom had pled guilty to 27 counts of obtaining property by false pretenses.
Sentencing and Consequences
Ngwadom was sentenced to a term of 12 to 34 months, suspended in favor of 36 months of supervised probation, which includes 90 days of house arrest and 100 hours of community service. He is required to pay restitution of $72,014.66, with $45,000 due by January 21, 2026. Failure to comply with the terms of his probation could result in imprisonment for up to three years.
Official Statements
U.S. Attorney General Jeff Jackson emphasized the impact of Medicaid fraud, stating, “When people defraud the Medicaid program, they are stealing money from North Carolina taxpayers and from those who rely on this care.” Prosecutor Tracy Grimes noted that Ngwadom’s fraudulent billing obstructed legitimate mental health care for some children.
Defense and Personal Impact
Ngwadom’s defense attorney, Lauren Toole, described the fraud as a mistake stemming from financial difficulties caused by the pandemic, which had led to the foreclosure of his home. Ngwadom has since taken out a second mortgage to meet his restitution obligations and has surrendered his professional licenses as part of the plea agreement.
Community and Leadership Role
Ngwadom was previously celebrated in his community for his educational background and leadership experience. His coronation as HRH SIR EZE Alphonsus OBIANOKWU IV was marked by high expectations for local development. The case raises questions about accountability for community leaders and the intersection of professional misconduct in global and local contexts.
Conclusion
The conviction of Dr. Ekelekamchukwu Alphonsus Ngwadom highlights significant issues surrounding Medicaid fraud and its implications for vulnerable populations relying on mental health services. As he navigates the consequences of his actions, the case serves as a reminder of the responsibilities held by those in positions of authority.
