A 45-year-old man, Oladipo Ayinde, appeared before a Lagos State Magistrates’ Court on Monday, accused of defrauding multiple victims of N60 million under the pretense of securing foreign visas.
Prosecutors said Ayinde posed as a travel agent and promised to obtain Canadian and European visas for at least five individuals. According to the police, the alleged fraud occurred between January and August 2023 in the Ikoyi area of Lagos.
The defendant reportedly collected sums ranging from N5 million to N15 million from each victim. After months of waiting with no visas delivered, the victims filed complaints with the police.
Prosecuting counsel, Inspector Felicia Okwori, told the court that Ayinde knowingly obtained the funds under false pretenses. He was charged with multiple counts of fraud, theft, and obtaining by false pretenses under sections of the Lagos State Criminal Law.
Ayinde pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Magistrate Adeola Olatunbosun granted him bail in the sum of N10 million with two sureties in like sum. She ordered that the sureties must be gainfully employed and provide evidence of tax payments.
The case was adjourned until February 12 for trial.
Police say investigations are still ongoing, and more victims may come forward. Authorities warned the public to be cautious when dealing with unverified visa agents.
