Ikoyi Apartment: 4 estate agents bolt with N2.6m

The gavel of justice

Four estate agents, who allegedly collected N2.6 million on the pretext of securing a two-bedroom apartment for a woman, are facing trial at an Igbosere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos.

The woman (names withheld) had paid to the agents to live in highbrow area of Ikoyi.

The accused, Bamidele Doherty, 71; Jubrin Yusuf, 47; Mathew Adeniyi, 39; and Kehinde Adeleye, 35 are being tried for a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, fraud and stealing.

The accused, however, denied the charges.

But Prosecutor Cyriacus Osuji insisted that the accused with others still at large committed the offences on June 5 at 2 p.m. at Parkview Estate, Ikoyi.

He said the men collected N2.6 million from the accommodation seeker to rent out a two-bedroom apartment at 19, Aghodogba St., Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, to her.

“The accused conspired and introduced Doherty to the complainant as the landlord of the apartment.

“The complainant then transferred the N2.6 million online and the accused disappeared with the money until they were apprehended by the police,’’ Sgt. Osuji said.

The offences contravened Sections 285, 312, 378 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

Sections 285 and 378 provide a three-year jail term for offenders.

Ruling on the bail application of the accused, the Magistrate, Mrs A.Y. Omiyale, granted them bail in the sum of N250, 000 each with two sureties each in like sum.

She said the sureties must produce evidence of tax payment and be gainfully employed.

The case was adjourned to August 2 for mention.