Citypost News Desk
A 55-year-old Lagos-based businessman, Chinedu Okekeigwe, has been arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court in Lagos over an alleged fraudulent land transaction involving the sum of N39.2 million.
Okekeigwe, who hails from Nise in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, is accused of defrauding one Chief Christian Chukwudi Obue under the guise of selling him 14 plots of land in Lagos.
According to the charge sheet filed by the police, the defendant allegedly obtained the money by false pretence, converted it for personal use, and engaged in conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace. The case is being prosecuted in the name of the Commissioner of Police versus Chinedu Okekeigwe.
Prosecutors told the court that Chief Obue paid the money after Okekeigwe claimed ownership of the said plots, which the complainant intended to use for the construction of a cottage hospital. Trouble, however, began when Obue attempted to take possession of the land, only to discover that the property was non-existent.
The prosecution further alleged that Okekeigwe, who is said to be the owner of Great Addmore Investment Company Limited, knowingly made false representations in June 2023 within the Lagos Magisterial District, thereby committing offences contrary to Sections 287(9)(d) and 314 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
Following his arraignment, the court granted Okekeigwe bail in the sum of N5 million, with two sureties each required to provide proof of verifiable employment and valid tax clearance.
The case has been adjourned until February 18 for hearing.
