A 63-year-old man, Sanusi Sakiru, is facing charges of fraud and theft involving a staggering sum of N30 million.
Sakiru appeared on Monday before an Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan, where he pleaded not guilty to the allegations.
He is accused of defrauding a prospective house buyer by falsely claiming to sell an uncompleted duplex.
Defendant Accused of High-Stakes Scam
Prosecutor Akeem Akinloye told the court that Sakiru conspired with others, who are still at large, to deceive one Mr. Joshua Akande.
According to Akinloye, the alleged crime spanned over two years, from March 3, 2022, to October 23, 2024.
He said the defendant collected N30 million under the pretense of selling a property in the prestigious Oni and Sons Area of Ibadan.
“This is a case of conspiracy, fraud, and theft,” Akinloye said.
The prosecutor explained that the alleged acts violated Sections 390(9), 419, and 516 of the Criminal Code Laws of Oyo State 2000.
Defendant Pleads Innocence
Despite the weight of the allegations, Sakiru maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to the charges.
He stood calmly as the charges were read out in court, denying any involvement in the fraudulent activities.
Court Grants Bail
Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi granted Sakiru bail in the sum of N7.5 million.
She set strict conditions for his release, requiring two sureties.
“One of the sureties must own landed property, while the second must be a close relative of the defendant,” Ogunkanmi ruled.
The court warned that failure to meet these conditions would keep Sakiru in custody until his trial.
Hearing Set for 2025
The Chief Magistrate adjourned the case to March 18, 2025, for further hearing.
Until then, the court urged all parties to prepare their cases and ensure they abide by legal procedures.
Fraud Victim Demands Justice
The complainant, Mr. Akande, is reportedly distraught over the loss of his hard-earned money.
Akande believed he was making a legitimate purchase but was allegedly misled by Sakiru and his accomplices.
“I trusted him because everything seemed genuine,” Akande was quoted as saying.
“I only want justice for the pain and financial loss this has caused me.”
