A serious fraud allegation has emerged against John Asanga, a self-proclaimed web designer, who is accused of defrauding Pastor Jean-Michel Tchamba, a Cameroonian pastor residing in the UK.
According to Pastor Jean, Asanga received nearly N40 million over two years to build a website but never completed the project. The conflict escalated when Jean demanded backend access, which Asanga refused to provide.
Website Fraud Allegations
Jean claims an independent IT company hired to recover the site discovered that Asanga had linked his PayPal account to the donation page, diverting funds. Additionally, Asanga allegedly connected unauthorized websites to the site’s subdomain, collecting money from them.
A statement of account obtained by SaharaReporters shows several transactions from Pastor Jean to Asanga, contradicting Asanga’s counterclaims.
Mismanagement of Abuja Medical Conference
Beyond the website dispute, Jean said Asanga was also entrusted with handling logistics for a medical conference in Abuja, receiving a ₦4.5 million advance. However, Jean alleges that Asanga inflated costs and failed to make any arrangements for the event.
Upon arrival in Abuja, Jean discovered that no venue had been booked. Asanga reportedly claimed he hadn’t confirmed the reservation because the full balance was unpaid. The situation was only salvaged when Asanga’s sister, Nsikan, and her husband, Jonnah, helped secure a venue at Abuja General Hospital through their Ministry of Health connections.
Asanga’s Arrest and Ongoing Legal Battle
Jean stated that after repeated failed attempts to resolve the situation, Asanga was arrested by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
While in Abuja, Jean hired a Lagos-based IT firm, which recovered the websites within three months. The company reported that Asanga had misappropriated funds through PayPal and linked subdomains.
Asanga’s Response: Denial and Counterclaims
In an interview with SaharaReporters, Asanga denied the allegations, insisting he was not paid in full.
“Every payment was for specific jobs—graphics, videos, and church services. I can provide my account details to prove it,” he said.
Asanga also dismissed claims that he linked a PayPal account to the donation page, stating, “I’m in Nigeria—I don’t even have a PayPal account. Let him show proof.”
He admitted withholding backend access, explaining, “Why would I hand it over when he hadn’t paid my balance?”
Regarding the N40 million fraud claim, Asanga said the total money he received was closer to N21 million, including payment for other services.
Legal Case Continues
The case remains unresolved, with both parties sticking to their claims. Pastor Jean insists that Asanga committed fraud and financial misconduct, while Asanga argues he was simply not fully paid for his work.
As the legal battle unfolds, more evidence may determine the final verdict.
