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Two ‘Islamic Clerics’ Arraigned For Allegedly Defrauding Doctor Of N280m In Spiritual Scam
They also allegedly posed as spiritualists capable of multiplying money and warding off calamity.
Ikeja, Lagos State- Two self-styled Islamic clerics have been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Lagos for allegedly defrauding a medical doctor of N280 million under the pretext of conducting spiritual fortification prayers on the money.
The accused, Saheed Atanda Aremu, 44, and Tolani Osuolale, 48, were said to have lured Dr. Patrick Eloka Akaraiwe into handing over a total of $200,000 (approximately N280 million) in three separate payments between November 2020 and October 2023.
According to the police, the defendants claimed the funds needed to be “spiritually fortified” to prevent misfortune or untimely death if used to acquire property.
They also allegedly posed as spiritualists capable of multiplying money and warding off calamity.
The duo was arraigned on Thursday on a five-count charge bordering on conspiracy, fraud, obtaining by false pretence, and stealing.
The charges were brought against them by the police under various sections of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offences Act, as well as the Criminal Code.
Police prosecutor Joseph Eboseremen told the court the alleged offences occurred in both Ibadan, Oyo State, and Oworonshoki, Lagos State.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Following the plea, the prosecution requested a trial date and the remand of the defendants in correctional custody.
Although the defence stated that a bail application had been filed and served, the prosecution said it needed time to respond.
Justice Daniel Osiagor subsequently ordered the remand of the defendants in prison custody and adjourned the case until July 18, 2025, for a hearing on the bail application.
