In the Badagry Chief Magistrates’ Court, a 35-year-old businessman, Maiga Iliyasu, found himself facing charges of alleged fraud amounting to N2,319,500.
The court appearance on Thursday marked a significant development in the unfolding legal proceedings surrounding the accusations leveled against Iliyasu.
The businessman, whose address remains undisclosed, entered the courtroom to confront a two-count charge of fraud and stealing.
Maintaining his innocence, Iliyasu pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.
The Police prosecutor, ASP Clement Okuoimose, outlined the details of the alleged offenses, revealing that they transpired on November 15 at 6:45 pm within the precincts of Agbalata International Market in Badagry, Lagos State.
According to Okuoimose, the accused, Maiga Iliyasu, purportedly engaged in fraudulent activities by obtaining N2.3 million from Mohammed Shamumu, the complainant, under the false pretense of selling a truckload of coconuts.
However, the promised transaction never materialized, and Iliyasu allegedly misappropriated the funds without the consent of the complainant.
The charges brought against Iliyasu are anchored in Sections 314 and 287 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015, reflecting the gravity of the alleged offenses.
As the legal proceedings unfolded, Chief Magistrate Mr. Fadahunsi Adefioye presided over the case and considered the issue of bail.
After careful consideration, Chief Magistrate Adefioye granted the accused bail in the sum of N500,000, with the condition that two sureties of equal sum vouch for Iliyasu.
The sureties, as stipulated by the court, must be responsible citizens residing in Lagos State and must be gainfully employed in reputable companies or government establishments.
The legal process is set to continue, with the case adjourned until December 19 for mention.
This development marks the initial phase of what promises to be a closely watched legal proceeding, shedding light on the intricacies of the allegations against Maiga Iliyasu and providing a glimpse into the judicial system’s response to financial improprieties in Lagos State.
As the accused faces the legal ramifications of the charges, the Badagry Chief Magistrates’ Court becomes the stage for a meticulous examination of the alleged fraud, seeking justice and accountability in the realm of financial transactions.
