Murray-Bruce Reflects On $3.5 Million Loss To Fraudulent South African Partner In Kenya Deal

Former Bayelsa State Senator, Ben Murray-Bruce, has shared the painful story of being defrauded of $3.5 million by his South African business partner in a deal involving the purchase of a cinema complex in Kenya.

Speaking at the fourth edition of the Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulation Conference in Victoria Island, Lagos, the founder of the Silverbird Group, explained how the funds were transferred, only for his partner to register the business under his own name, leaving Murray-Bruce with no claim to the investment.

He recalled the situation, saying, “I was called to buy a cinema complex in Kenya for $3.5 million. I transferred the money and my South African partner registered it in his name. That was how I lost that huge investment.”

In addition to the loss, Murray-Bruce revealed that he is currently engaged in a legal battle with a top Hollywood actor over a studio he owns in Los Angeles.

“I have a studio in Los Angeles and I am battling with litigation with one of the most prominent actors in Hollywood,” he added.

The media mogul, known for his keen interest in movie production, also mentioned his current project, a movie script he is working on that will focus on addressing critical social issues.

Murray-Bruce emphasized the importance of fostering creativity, noting that the kids — “future leaders” were “learning how to be tough. But some people see them as crooks. Leaders of entertainment in the US today were born in their Ajegunle.

“The entertainment industry is a very successful one. In all the things I have done, I have never made one move about movie making but now, I will. I am working on a script and I know we will get it right. We will deal with fundamental issues.”

Reflecting on the late Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, a renowned Nigerian filmmaker and the founder of the African Movie Academy Awards, Murray-Bruce fondly remembered her visits to his home during their childhood.

“Peace came to my house one day and asked me why I abandoned entertainment and became a politician. I have known her since she was six years old. She used to come to our house on her bicycle. Her brothers also used to come riding theirs,” he recalled.