Businessman Charged With N8.4m Fraud

A businessman, Fatai Adetunji, who allegedly obtained N8.4 million under false pretences, was on Monday charged before a Tinubu Magistrates’ Court in Lagos.

Adetunji, 43, who resides at No. 5, Odunfa St., Lagos Island, is standing trial on a three-count charge of conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretences and stealing.

The prosecutor, SP Effiong Asuquo, said the accused had on Aug. 17 obtained N6 million from one Victor Olufunsho with a promise to remit the money to account No. 00187538 at Halifax Bank, UK, owned by Mrs Yetunde Sarumi, Olufunsho’s sister.

He said the accused also collected 9, 235 pounds (N2.4 million) from one Olushola Lawanson under false pretences.

Asuquo said the offences contravened Sections 285, 312 and 409 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.

The accused, however, entered a plea of not-guilty.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Magistrate Martins Owumi asked Adetunji if he could pay back the money within a year toward an amicable settlement of the matter.

The accused, who replied in the?affirmative, was granted bail in the sum of N500, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

The case?was adjourned? to Oct. 10 for further hearing. (NAN)