Ibadan, Nigeria: Samson Olanlokun, 32, appeared before the Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan on Friday, facing two counts of fraud and stealing involving ₦8.2 million.
Prosecutors allege that Olanlokun obtained the funds from Mr. Olayiwola Awe-Azeez under the pretence of constructing a telecommunications mast in Benin City, Edo State, but instead diverted the money for personal use.
Olanlokun, whose address was provided, is facing a two-count charge of fraud and stealing, to which he pleaded not guilty.
The Prosecutor, Insp. Sikiru Opaleye told the court that the defendant committed the offences in August at the Akobo area of Ibadan.
Opaleye alleged that the defendant obtained the money from the complainant, Mr Olayiwola Awe-Azeez, to build a telecommunication mast in Benin City, Edo State, which he failed to do.
He said that the defendant had converted the money to his personal use.
Defence Counsel, Mr O. K Olorode, urged the court to grant her client bail in the most liberal terms.
The Chief Magistrate, Mrs Olabisi Ogunkanmi, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N2.5million with two sureties in like sum.
Ogunkanmi said one of the sureties must own a landed property, and the second surety must be a blood relation of the defendant.