Businessman faces N6.2m fraud charge

A 38-year-old businessman, Emmanuel Akhidimme, who allegedly obtained N6.2 million under false pretences, on Friday, appeared before an Ejigbo Magistrates’ Court, Lagos.

Akhidimme, whose residential address was not given, is standing trial on a two-count charge of fraud and stealing.

The prosecutor, ASP Kenneth Asibor, told the court that the defendant committed the offences on Dec. 2, at 4:00p.m, at Tincan area in Apapa, Lagos.

He said that the defendant obtained the sum of N6.2 million from the complainant, Mr Bartholomew Adamu, under the guise of selling a Toyota Highlander car and an empty container to him, but failed to do so.

The prosecutor said that the defendant converted the money to his personal use.

He said the offences contravened Sections 280 and 314 (1) (3) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

It was stated that Section 314(1) (3) provides 15 years imprisonment for an offender.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The Magistrate, Mr E. O. Ogunkanmi, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N3 million with two sureties in like sum.

He said that the sureties must be gainfully employed and show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government.

He adjourned the case until Feb. 24, for mention.