A 31-year-old woman, Ajayi Esther, has been arraigned before the Ado-Ekiti Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ekiti State, Nigeria, on charges of fraud, impersonation, and breach of peace. She is accused of defrauding a man, Ajayi Oluwabusuyi, of N607,500 by falsely claiming to be single and promising marriage. The alleged offenses occurred on February 1st in Ado-Ekiti.
The prosecution, led by Inspector Sodiq Adeniyi, told the court that Esther deceived Oluwabusuyi into believing she was single and willing to marry him. Based on this deception, she collected the money under the pretense of preparing for their engagement, but subsequently refused to proceed with the marriage.
The prosecution also stated that Esther falsely claimed to be a teacher at Egiri Oke Comprehensive School.
The charges against Esther violate Sections 186, 393, and 181(1)(d) of the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021. Esther pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Her lawyer, Mrs. Joy Raphael, requested bail, which was granted by Chief Magistrate Dolamu Babalogbon in the sum of N50,000 with one surety.
The case has been adjourned until March 5th for further hearing. This incident highlights the increasing prevalence of fraud in personal relationships and has garnered significant public attention. The court will ultimately determine Esther’s culpability in the upcoming proceedings.
