A 40-year-old Lagos cook, Michael Elijah, is at the center of a shocking theft case after allegedly stealing a whopping N80 million from his employer, Omonigho Akinsanya, in Ikoyi, Lagos. The accused, who reportedly fled to his hometown in Akwa Ibom State after the crime, is now facing serious legal consequences.
The Financial Malpractices Investigation Unit (FMIU) of the Nigeria Police Force arrested Elijah after an intensive manhunt. The suspect was charged with conspiracy and theft at the Tinubu Magistrate’s Court, Lagos Island, following a thorough investigation.
The Crime Unfolded
The dramatic heist occurred on December 19, 2024, when Akinsanya, a business executive, left her home for a brief shopping trip to a nearby supermarket. According to the police, Elijah, who had been working in her household, used a spare key to gain access to her apartment. Armed with a kitchen knife, he broke into two briefcases containing N80 million in cash, stuffed the money into two Ghana-must-go bags, and made a swift getaway.
Realizing what had happened, Akinsanya returned home to find the briefcases empty and Elijah missing. His phone had been switched off, making it clear that the cook had vanished with her money.
A Swift Manhunt
Determined to recover her money, Akinsanya lodged a complaint with the office of the Inspector General of Police. The case was promptly handed over to the FMIU, a specialized unit known for tackling high-profile financial crimes.
The FMIU’s team, led by investigator Odunuga Akeem, wasted no time tracking Elijah. Utilizing advanced technology and local intelligence, they traced him to a remote village in Akwa Ibom State, where he had sought refuge. Elijah was apprehended and transported back to Lagos to face justice.
Courtroom Drama
In court, police prosecutor Ben Ekundayo detailed the events leading to Elijah’s arrest. “The defendant betrayed the trust of his employer by using a spare key to access her apartment and carting away N80 million in cash,” Ekundayo stated. He added that Elijah’s actions demonstrated a calculated plan to flee the scene of the crime and evade capture.
Elijah, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges of conspiracy and theft. His defense lawyer argued for leniency, citing his cooperative behavior during the arrest and his willingness to appear in court.
Chief Magistrate M. Owunmi, while acknowledging the gravity of the allegations, granted bail to the defendant in the sum of N5 million with two sureties in like amount. The conditions include that the sureties must have verifiable addresses and provide evidence of gainful employment.
Until Elijah meets the bail requirements, he has been remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Facility. The court adjourned the case to February 2, 2025, for mention.