NAN-H-37
Thrift
By Oluwatope Lawanson
Lagos, May 19, 2017 (NAN) A 37-year-old thrift collector, Jennifer Eze, on Friday appeared before an Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court, for allegedly obtaining N905,000 under false pretence.
The accused is facing a two-count charge of fraud and stealing.
Eze, who resides at No. 37, Ijayi St., Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The prosecutor, Insp. Peter Nwangwu, alleged that the accused fraudulently obtained N600,000 and N305,000 respectively as daily contributions from two complainants, Mr Chikere Obiechi and Mrs Mbalala Felista.
He said the offence was committed between January and February 2017 at Idowu Lane, Ikeja, Lagos.
“The complainants started daily contributions with the thrift collector between the time stated, which now accumulated to the said amount.
“When the money was due for collection as at the agreed time, the accused absconded to an unknown destination,” the prosecutor told the court.
Nwangwu said that all efforts by the complainants to ensure that the accused refund the money was unsuccessful, as her cell phones were switched off, hence they reported to the police.
The offence contravened Sections 285 and 312 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Section 285 carries a three-year imprisonment on conviction.
Chief Magistrate, Aje Afunwa, granted the accused N500,000 bail with two sureties, who must be gainfully employed, with evidence of three years’ tax payment to the Lagos State Government.
The case was adjourned till June 14, for service of proof of evidence. (NAN)
LAW/FLP/MZA
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Edited by Folorunso Poroye and Maharazu Ahmed