Epstein wanted to trade in Nigeria’s crude oil, but feared being defrauded

Newly released FBI documents reveal that Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier, explored a business deal to trade Nigerian crude oil in 2010 but feared being defrauded. The emails, part of the Epstein Files Transparency Act release, show Epstein in discussions with David Stern about brokering oil sales to China with a potential $6 million profit. Despite the lure of high earnings, Epstein expressed caution over the risky and opaque nature of the Nigerian oil market.

Stern, in his emails to Epstein, mentioned a contact known as “PA” who could connect them to individuals with access to buy and resell Nigeria’s crude. “This seems very fishy,” Epstein reportedly remarked, highlighting the persistent skepticism even within his circle of ultra-wealthy associates. Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, has long faced challenges with corruption and black-market oil trading, making such deals especially risky.

The emails also reveal Epstein’s broader interest in Nigeria, including a separate correspondence from George Reenstra, founder of Aircraft Service Group. Reenstra had planned an urgent visit to Nigeria to meet President Goodluck Jonathan just months after he took office. Though it remains unclear whether the meeting occurred, the exchanges demonstrate Epstein’s attempts to use high-level networks to facilitate international business ventures.

These newly released documents shed light on Epstein’s far-reaching connections beyond his well-known social and criminal activities. The emails include interactions with notable figures such as Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, Elon Musk, and Prince Andrew. Epstein’s communications often mixed business proposals, social invitations, and introductions to young women, illustrating the intertwined nature of his social and financial networks.

The FBI’s release of the Epstein files continues to generate public interest, revealing the complexity of his dealings and the breadth of his influence. From high-stakes oil negotiations in Nigeria to private exchanges with some of the world’s most powerful individuals, the documents provide a rare glimpse into Epstein’s operations, long after he died in 2019.

source: premiumtimes