A consultant, Daniel Akpan, on Wednesday appeared in an Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court, over alleged N2.23 million Australian visa fraud.

Akpan, 34, who resides in Ikotun area of Lagos, is charged with conspiracy, obtaining money under false pretence and stealing.

He pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge. The Prosecutor, Insp. Victor Eruada, told the court that Akpan and one other at large committed the offence between November and December 2018 at No 22, Modupe Ayode St., Araromi Iyana-Ipaja, Alimosho, Lagos.

He alleged that the defendant obtained N2.23 million from the complainant, Mr Osita Nnamani, with the promise to secure an Australian visa for him.

Eruada submitted that Akpan failed to procure the visa and refused to return the money.

He said that the offence contravened the provisions of sections 411, 287 and 314 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Chief Magistrate M. I Dan-Oni, admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N500, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

Dan-Oni ordered that the sureties should be gainfully employed and show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government and have their addresses verified.

The case was adjourned until April 3, for substantive trial. (NAN)

– Mar. 6, 2019 @ 11:45 GMT |