Lagos Court Remands Man Over Alleged N7.9m Azerbaijan, Maldives Visa Fraud

The prosecutor, SP Phillip Ademigbuji, told the court that Muruako and one Ohakwe Ogechi Vivian, who is still at large, allegedly conspired between 25th August, 2025 and 21st June, 2026 to defraud one Joseph Madukwe.

According to the charge sheet, the defendants allegedly obtained the sum of N7,910,000 from the complainant under the pretence of procuring valid Azerbaijan and Maldives working visas, flight tickets and hotel reservations for him. The prosecutor said the defendants failed to deliver the promised documents and services.

SP Ademigbuji further alleged that the defendants unlawfully converted the money to their own use. The offences were said to be contrary to and punishable under Sections 411, 314 (a)(b)(3) and 280(1)(b) and 287 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015.

The charges read in part:

Count 1: Conspiracy to commit felony, to wit, Obtaining Money Under False Pretence and Stealing.

Count 2: Obtaining money by false pretence to the tune of N7,910,000.

Count 3: Unlawful conversion of the sum of N7,910,000 obtained from Joseph Madukwe.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor informed the court that investigations are still ongoing and that efforts are being made to arrest the second suspect, Ohakwe Ogechi Vivian, who remains at large.

The Presiding Magistrate, Mrs. O. Kusanu, granted bail to the defendant in the sum of N2,000,000 with two sureties in like sum. She added that the sureties must show evidence of means of livelihood and present proof of tax payment to the Lagos State Government.

Mrs. Kusanu further ordered that the defendant be remanded in custody at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre pending the perfection of the bail conditions.

The case was adjourned for mention to enable the Police to complete investigations and for possible arraignment of the second suspect.

Speaking after the proceedings, legal observers noted that the case highlights the need for members of the public to verify travel and visa agents before making payments, especially for jobs abroad. They advised that all transactions should be done through licensed travel agencies and with proper documentation to avoid falling victim to fraud.

The Murtala Muhammed International Airport Division of the Nigeria Police, where the case originated, said it remains committed to tackling travel-related fraud and protecting Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.