Businessman docked for scamming victim of N300,000 for European visa

By Sodiq Adelakun

A 54-year-old businessman, Princely Amaechi, made an appearance in the Ejigbo Magistrates’ Court in Lagos on Thursday accused of duping his victim of N300,000 under the pretense of facilitating a European visa.

Amaechi is currently facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, obtaining under false pretenses, and stealing, as brought against him by the police, revealed Prosecutor, ASP Benedict Aigbokhan, during the court session.

The alleged offenses were said to have taken place in 2019 at No. 40, Emmanuel Okonne St., Baruwa, Ipaja, Lagos. It is claimed that Amaechi fraudulently obtained N300,000 from Ms. Abigail Nwonyi, promising to secure a European visa for her.

However, he failed to fulfill his promise and instead diverted the funds for personal use.

These actions, according to Aigbokhan, contravene Sections 287, 314(1), and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos, 2015.

Amaechi, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges leveled against him. In response, Magistrate Miss K. A. Ariyo granted him bail in the sum of N100,000, requiring two sureties to post bail in a similar amount.

The magistrate stipulated that the sureties must be gainfully employed and provide evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government.

The case has been adjourned until April 16 for further hearing.