Man docked for allegedly defrauding victim of N1.2 Million over fake visa

A man, Benefactor Jamiu, was on Thursday arraigned before a Gwagwalada Magistrates’ Court for allegedly defrauding a victim of N1.2 million under the pretense of securing a travel document for him.

Jamiu, from Chukuku village in Abuja, faced charges of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, and cheating.

According to the prosecution, represented by Dabo Yakubu, the complainant, Chidi Okwosha, reported the matter at the Gwagwalada Area Command office on January 22. Yakubu revealed that sometime in 2022, Jamiu, alongside an accomplice, Sunny Kenneth (who is currently at large), deceived Okwosha into believing they would arrange a visa for his travel to Qatar.

Yakubu further alleged that Jamiu fraudulently obtained N1.2 million from Okwosha for the visa preparation but failed to provide the promised travel document.

Instead, the defendant allegedly used the money for personal purposes.

The prosecutor stated that the charges against Jamiu contravened Sections 97, 312, and 322 of the Penal Code.

Jamiu, however, pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

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In his defense, counsel T.T. Istifanies made an oral application for bail, assuring the court that the defendant would not abscond.

He referenced the provisions of Sections 158 and 159 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) to support the request.

Magistrate Olatunji Oladunmoye granted Jamiu bail in the amount of N1 million, with one reasonable surety in like sum.

The surety must be employed in a reputable organization and provide evidence of employment. The magistrate also ordered verification of the surety’s address.

The case was adjourned until February 26 for further hearing.